Friends,
I hope this message finds you well during these difficult times. As community leaders, I feel that it is important to reach out to you with with a special message regarding the civil rights of Rhode Islanders.
As anxiety about COVID-19 grows both nationally and across our state, we continue to hear about incidents of discrimination and violence directed toward Asian Americans happening around the country. In fact, we have heard directly from members of the Asian American community right here in Rhode Island that many people are living in fear of being targeted due bigotry and misinformation surrounding this pandemic.
Discrimination or harassment based on race or ethnicity is illegal in Rhode Island. If you have witnessed or have been the target of discrimination, harassment or violence motivated by race or national origin, or if you have questions about the community resources available, we want to hear from you. Please reach out to the Civil Rights Advocate in the Office of the Attorney General at (401) 274-4400, email
civilrights@riag.ri.gov
, or
file a complaint online
.
If you have any questions or would like to speak further, please feel free to reply or call (401) 274-4400.
Stay safe,
Peter
