Welcome to BiasHELP.org
Imagine a community free of violence, where children can go to school without fear, families live in harmony, and fairness, justice, and equality prevail. We envision such a place and through our wide array of community-based programs and services, work to make that dream a reality.
Incorporated in 1997, BiasHELP has steadily and assertively taken a lead role in combating discrimination, hate crimes, bullying and youth violence on Long Island and beyond. Our name incorporates our comprehensive approach to social justice with an emphasis on the following: enhancing the physical and mental health of vulnerable populations; conducting education to reduce bias and enhance understanding; spearheading leadership initiatives to create new partnerships, mobilize communities and promote visibility; and leading policy efforts to bring about the systemic change necessary to protect potential victims and their families.
Mission Statement:
BiasHELP, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit agency dedicated to preventing, monitoring and lessening the effects of bias crimes, hate-related harassment and discrimination. BiasHELP considers an action to be discriminatory when a person or group is targeted, in whole or in part, because of their perceived race, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, religion, age, disability (including HIV status) or sexual orientation. Though BiasHELP serves all who fall prey to bias crimes, hate-related harassment and discrimination, our programs recognize that racial and ethnic minorities, Jewish people, and members of the gay and lesbian community are among the populations most often impacted.
At the heart of BiasHELP's mission are the following priorities:
Health
BiasHELP recognizes and understands the far-ranging impact of bias crimes, hate-related harassment and discrimination on victims, their families and the surrounding community. As such, we are committed to the ongoing development of support services designed to repair the physical and emotional harm inflicted on victims and those around them.
Education
BiasHELP believes that education is the most important weapon for combating discrimination and bias-related violence. The reduction of hate, prejudice and intolerance helps reduce intergroup tensions, thereby decreasing and preventing incidents of conflict and violence. The furtherance of community and school-based educational initiatives are central to BiasHELP's purpose.
Leadership
The need to speak out and unite communities against bias crimes, hate-related harassment and discrimination has never been more evident. BiasHELP will develop, support and strengthen community voices to ensure a public response to discrimination and bias crimes on Long Island that is swift and forceful.
Policy
BiasHELP believes that government plays an important role in bias and discrimination reduction efforts and is committed to advocating for fair and effective public policy in this area. BiasHELP will work on local, state and federal levels to make sure that government funding and policies adequately meet community needs.
If you or someone you know has been the victim of discrimination, bullying or a hate crime, call our hotline toll-free for immediate assistance at: 1-877-END-BIAS (363-2427) or by E-mail. |
