As a Santa Cruz County resident who lost a family member to a hate crime, I and many of my neighbors are concerned about indications of hateful behavior in our community (allegations of racist treatment at a local nightclub, distribution of hateful flyers in Aptos, vandalism of BLM street mural, etc.). I've put together a diverse planning group to figure out what we might do to discourage hateful behavior and foster neighborliness.

We have a game plan!

Our initiative, Santa Cruz County United for Safe and Inclusive Communities (SCCUSIC) is planning to host various events during the United Against Hate Week (Nov. 14-20th, 2021). These events include panel discussions with diverse community leaders and bystander training. We are also planning to partner with the Watsonville Film Festival in order to screen a curated set of anti-hate films, produced by an Oakland based Non-profit called "Not in Our Town". This Organization uses film to inspire and empower communities regarding actions we can take to discourage hate activity and encourage positive connections.

The goal is to raise at least $8,000 to cover the above activities (since the local labor is all voluntary).

If we raise more, we can do more!

Thank you very much for supporting our cause, please spread the word!

For more information, please contact organizer, Marcelle DuPraw