New Survey Finds 2.6 Million Californians Experienced Acts of Hate in Just One Year

SACRAMENTO, CA — A new report released by the California Civil Rights Department (CRD), in collaboration with the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research, reveals that an estimated 2.6 million Californians—or roughly 8% of the population—directly experienced at least one act of hate during a single year between 2022 and 2023.

The data was collected through the California Health Interview Survey (CHIS), the largest state health survey in the nation. In 2023, the CRD worked with CHIS to include questions that measure hate experiences, expanding the state’s understanding beyond what is typically reported to law enforcement.

“These estimates make it clear that people across our state continue to experience hate and discrimination well beyond what is reported,” said CRD Director Kevin Kish. “It takes all of us working together to live up to our values of respect and compassion for every Californian.”

According to the report:

• 2.6 million Californians experienced at least one act of hate

• 525,000 encountered hate that was potentially criminal in nature

• 5 million witnessed acts of hate

Key Motivations and Locations

Respondents cited race (57%), national origin or language (19%), and gender identity (15%) as leading motivations. The most common locations for adults included streets or sidewalks (45%), businesses (34%), and homes (23%), while youth most often reported hate incidents at school (80%) or online (24%).

Impact by Community

• Black (16%), Native American (13%), and Asian (9%) Californians were most likely to experience hate

• LGBTQ+ adults and people with disabilities reported significantly higher rates of hate experiences

• Adolescents (12–17 years old) reported a 15% experience rate

“This data can be an invaluable resource that helps make sure policies and programs are most effective,” said Dr. Ninez A. Ponce, Director of the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research.

California’s Response

In 2023, Governor Gavin Newsom launched CA vs Hate, a multilingual, non-emergency hotline and online portal for reporting and accessing support related to hate incidents. The state also continues to fund efforts through the Stop the Hate grant program and supports communities via the California Commission on the State of Hate.

To report an act of hate or access resources, visit CAvsHate.org or call (833) 866-4283. For emergencies or criminal hate acts, call 911.

This report underscores California’s continued leadership in addressing hate through community investment, policy development, and public awareness.

Credit: California Civil Rights Department, State of California
Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.