As part of United Against Hate Week, which is recognized nationally Sept. 21 – 27, the City of San Diego is inviting community members to attend a series of events aimed at educating and encouraging open communication to address hatred, implicit bias and intolerance.  

The City’s Human Relations Commission has authored a resolution to declare a united front against hate in San Diego, recognizing that inclusion and equity are vital to building healthy and resilient communities. 

"Hate has no place in San Diego – not in our neighborhoods, schools, or workplaces," said Mayor Todd Gloria. "United Against Hate Week is an important reminder of our collective responsibility to stand up against hate and intolerance in all its forms. I encourage every San Diegan to participate in the events this week, strengthen our bonds as a community, and reaffirm our commitment to building a city that celebrates diversity, inclusion, and mutual respect." 

United Against Hate Week began as a poster campaign in the San Francisco Bay Area in 2017 in response to an uptick in crimes involving evidence of hatred and bias based on the victim’s race, religion, ancestry, national origin, disability, gender or sexual orientation. This week of action has now become an annual event recognized by hundreds of cities and communities across the country. 

“This week, national United Against Hate week, we call on all our neighbors and friends in San Diego to join the City of San Diego Human Relations Commission in actively celebrating and getting involved in the many events scheduled,” said Tootie Thomas, Chairperson of the City of San Diego Human Relations Commission. “In addition, use your social media presence to let your friends and family know that you support them, ride for them and rise up with San Diego United Against Hate.”

The Human Relations Commission, along with several community partners, is coordinating events this week that are open to the public. 

• Interfaith Prayer Vigil: NAACP’s National Day of Mourning for African Americans Killed in Police Involved Interactions. 
  • Tuesday, Sept. 24, from 6 – 7:30 p.m., at Southeastern Live Well Center, 5101 Market St.
• National Conflict Resolution Center: The ART of Inclusive Communication
  • Wednesday, Sept. 25, from 1 – 2:30 p.m. Register to join the virtual webinar.
• LGBTQ Stop the Hate Education Session
  • Thursday, Sept. 26, from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., at The San Diego LGBT Center, 3909 Centre St. 

About the Human Relations Commission

As an advisory commission to the Mayor and City Council, the Human Relations Commission is empowered to collaborate with civic institutions, educate the public, investigate policy to make our city better, advocate on issues to the Mayor and Council, and mediate disputes of discrimination, exclusion and bias in the City of San Diego. The Commission works to protect basic human and civil rights and promotes activities that foster mutual respect and understanding. If you are interested in volunteering for a City board or commission, visit the City's Boards and Commissions webpage.