U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder Participated in Anchorage Hate Crimes Forum Hosted by Z.J. Loussac Library

Anchorage, Alaska – U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder and Mayor Ethan Berkowitz were opening speakers at the Anchorage Hate Crimes Forum hosted by Z.J. Loussac Library on Saturday, Sept. 21. Attorney Schroder also participated as member of the Law Enforcement panel.

Members of the Law Enforcement panel addressed how to report a crime, what to expect in a criminal investigation, and how to determine whether a hate crime occurred. The panelists reminded community members that law enforcement actions depend upon the community timely reporting crimes.

Members of the Community panel provided an outlook on victims of bias and hate crimes, including the reluctance that many victims have to report crimes. The panelists also addressed concerns of bias against marginalized groups and violence against women in Anchorage and throughout the state.

Members of the Resource panel discussed resources that are available to victims or witnesses to crimes. The panelists highlighted available advocacy and enforcement groups, and encouraged affected individuals to not be afraid to seek help.

The event’s empowering keynote address came from Judy and Dennis Shepard of the Matthew Shepard Foundation, presenting their mission “to erase hate by replacing it with understanding, compassion, and acceptance.”

Attorney Schroder provided an encouraging recap, stating “Anchorage is a diverse city and we must recognize the complexities associated with diversity. This public discussion assembled individuals, agencies, and organizations with a common goal: fight hatred. We must fight hatred by having a strong community that will not tolerate prejudice. Through continuous outreach, awareness, and education, we can build a stronger community to support our common goal.”

For more information about Department of Justice’s work to combat and prevent hate crimes, visit www.justice.gov/hatecrimes: a one-stop portal with links to Department of Justice hate crimes resources for law enforcement, media, researchers, victims, advocacy groups, and other organizations and individuals.

Law enforcement members joining U.S. Attorney Bryan Schroder at this event included officials from the Anchorage Police Department, Alaska State Troopers, Anchorage District Attorney Office, and Federal Bureau of Investigation. Help make a difference by reporting crimes to your local law enforcement officials.