City of Bellevue leaders have taken action to fight hate, bias and racism, after many instances of hate crimes and discrimination against the Asian and Pacific Islander community nationwide since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. A release from the City explains ways in which they are responding and supporting a welcoming, inclusive community.
The movement, “Hate Has No Home Here”, is an affirmation of community values in ensuring everyone is safe, has a sense of belonging, and embraces a shared accountability to treat all with respect. This is a stance that the City is taking against all forms of hate, including members of BIPOC communities. It is an “affirmation that residents, businesses, and places of worship and education in Bellevue will not tolerate hate, in any of its forms, in our community.”
Messages from Bellevue in support of Asian and Pacific Islander community members include Mayor Lynne Robinson communicating that hate has no home in Bellevue, and the City Council signed a proclamation urging residents to report bias crimes, and renewed its commitment to embrace diversity. Police Chief Steve Mylett also urged residents to step forward to report crimes.
To report incidents of hate or bias, reach out to the following resources; Bellevue Police online crime tool reporting, Chinese Information Service Center in partnership with King County Coalition Against Hate and Bias, and Bellevue School District.
Residents are encouraged pick-up yard and window signs that read “Hate Has No Home Here”. For specific times and information, please visit the press release. Window stickers will also be available for businesses and organizations to pick up at the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce or they can be mailed.
The City of Bellevue is inviting the community to be part of a crowd-sourced community video message about what an inclusive community looks like. It will be posted to the city’s website and YouTube channel. Visit this document to participate.
