ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Local public safety leaders are committing to combat ethnic intimidation and discrimination all around Washtenaw County in the wake of conflict in the Middle East.
Michigan Representative Debbie Dingell, the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office and Prosecutor’s Office, local police departments, and the Washtenaw County Office of Public Defense issued a joint statement vowing to keep the county safe for all residents and visitors.
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The statement notes how leaders have met with religious and faith leaders to better gauge community needs and a general heightened sense of fear and concern from the public.
“Many are worried about sending their children to school, taking their families to worship, or simply leaving home. And to a person, each expressed their concern for the lives lost and the humanity which connects us,” reads the statement.
“What’s clear, is that despite the historical challenges abroad, we in Washtenaw County are not against one another. Our common humanity, our diversity, and our giving nature is what makes our community special and what unites us in these tumultuous times.”
The statement says that public safety organizations will defend the right to free speech but will not support speech that could be deemed as inciting hatred, intimidation or violence.
Public safety leaders have also vowed a zero-tolerance policy for intimidation, and have taken a stand against hatred based on faith or culture.
“There is zero tolerance for ethnic intimidation. We stand against antisemitism and Islamophobia and are united in our commitment to vigorously investigate and aggressively prosecute hate crimes and all other associated unlawful behavior committed in Washtenaw County.”
County police departments will increase patrols, particularly near schools and religious institutions as preventative and deterrent measures.
Hate crimes and other associated unlawful behavior will be prosecuted, the statement reads.
Community members are encouraged to speak up if they see suspicious behavior and to report discrimination and hate crimes.
“See something, say something. Be the one to speak up. If you see something suspicious, report it to us. Your tip could save a life,” it says.
Potential hate crimes should be called into local police agencies and into the Michigan Attorney General’s Hate Crime Unit at 313-456-0180 or HateCrimes@michigan.gov.
Discrimination can be reported to the Michigan Department of Civil Rights by filing a complaint here.
Anyone in danger should call 9-1-1.
The statement emphasizes that local law enforcement will not inquire about immigration status unless it is directly impactful to reported incidents.