SLC FBI release PSA hoping to reach hate crime victims

SALT LAKE CITY — The Salt Lake City FBI is hoping to reach more people in minority communities who may be victims of hate crimes.

Wednesday, the agency released a PSA encouraging people to report hate crimes. The agency has translated and recorded the PSA in a total of nine languages. These include Spanish, English, Arabic, Turkish, Urdu, Persian-Afghan (Dari), Persian-Iranian (Farsi), Pashto-Afghani, and Somali.

Special Agent in Charge Shohini Sinha said they are seeing more hate speech and harassment against certain people in the Beehive State. Specifically, according to Sinha, Utah has seen a rise in hate speech directed toward Jewish people, Arab Americans, and Muslims.

This includes a rise in electronic hate crimes.

“Those may be made on social media, they may be made via email, they may be voicemails,” Sinha said. “Actual face-to-face threats are somewhat less prevalent, but nonetheless are a deep concern of ours.”

Sinha said the bureau saw half a percent increase in hate crimes in 2022. However, she’s still waiting for the 2023 numbers.

According to a press release, one of the PSA’s primary goals is to “connect with community members of various backgrounds, including those who may have challenges with literacy.”

Sinha said the FBI plans to take this PSA to refugee and relief organizations around the state.

To report a hate crime to the Salt Lake City FBI,  call 1-800-CALL-FBI or submit tips through an electronic tip form.

Devin Oldroyd contributed to this story.

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