Hate-Motivated Acts
Victim Services Bruce Grey (VSBG)
What Is a Hate-Motivated Act?
A hate-motivated act occurs when someone is targeted because of who they are — or who they are perceived to be.
This may relate to race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, Indigenous identity, language, nationality, or other personal characteristics.
Some hate-motivated acts are criminal offences. Others may not meet the legal definition of a crime — but both can cause real harm.
Hate Crime vs Hate Incident
Hate Crime
A criminal offence where bias, prejudice, or hate is a motivating factor.
Some examples are:
- Assault accompanied by slurs
- Vandalism of a place of worship
- Hate symbols painted on property
- Criminal harassment targeting identity
- Online threats directed at a specific community
Hate Incident
Behaviour motivated by bias or prejudice that may not be criminal but still affects safety and well-being.
Some examples are:
- Online harassment
- Intimidation or exclusion
- Public display of hate symbols
- Repeated derogatory comments
The Impact of Hate
Hate Incident
Hate can affect individuals, families, and entire communities.
It may lead to:
- Fear or anxiety
- Sleep disruption
- Loss of sense of safety
- Avoiding school, work, or public spaces
No one should feel unsafe because of who they are.
Our Commitment
Victim Services Bruce Grey recognizes that hate disproportionately affects individuals and communities who are already marginalized or historically targeted.
We are committed to:
- Trauma-informed support
- Respectful, non-judgmental service
- Confidentiality
- Supporting individuals regardless of background or immigration status
Why Reporting Matters
Reporting helps us:
- Identify patterns and trends
- Strengthen prevention efforts
- Offer support to those affected
- Inform community safety planning
Submitting a report through VSBG:
- Does not automatically notify police
- Does not create a police report without consent
- Can be submitted anonymously
- Allows follow-up only if you request it
If you are in immediate danger, call 911
For Youth
If you are a young person and something happened that made you feel targeted or unsafe:
- It is okay to talk about it
- You do not need to decide if it was "serious enough"
- You can ask for support even if you do not want police involved
You may complete the Hate Incident Reporting Form yourself or ask a trusted adult for help.
Everyone deserves to feel safe at school, online, and in their community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to give my name?
No. You may report a hate-motivated act anonymously.
Will police be contacted automatically?
No. Police are not notified unless you choose to involve them.
What happens after I submit a report?
Your submission is reviewed by trained VSBG staff. If you request follow-up, we will contact you using the safest method you identified.
Can I ask for support later?
Yes. You can reach out at any time.
Report an Incident
If you would like to report a hate crime or hate incident in Bruce or Grey County, please click the button below.
All submissions are reviewed by trained VSBG staff.
Together with our community partners, we are committed to strengthening safety, inclusion, and belonging across Bruce and Grey Counties as part of our shared Community Safety & Well-Being efforts.