Mercer Times

Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division on Civil Rights (DCR) have announced a new initiative, the No Hate in the Garden State Youth Competition, aimed at combating bias and discrimination in New Jersey. This competition is part of a broader statewide effort to address rising incidents of bias, particularly in schools.

The competition is open to middle and high school students across New Jersey. It will be coordinated by DCR in partnership with the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ). The initiative aims to empower young people to make positive changes within their communities.

Earlier this year, Attorney General Platkin launched a public awareness campaign supported by federal funds. The campaign, also named No Hate in the Garden State, seeks to reverse the increase in bias incidents and crimes while encouraging more reporting of such events. According to data from the State’s Bias Incident portal, schools are now frequent sites for these incidents.

Attorney General Platkin emphasized the importance of addressing this issue: “Every day our young people are exposed to hate. Our data shows that across the nation and in New Jersey, we are seeing a steady rise in reported bias incidents and crimes, particularly in school settings. This has to change.” He added that the youth competition would provide an opportunity for young people passionate about creating change.

Sundeep Iyer, Director of the Division on Civil Rights, stated: “We know that many young people are all too familiar with the damaging effects of bias incidents on students, their schools, and their communities. That’s why it’s critical that they have a seat at the table in our conversations around combating bias in New Jersey.”

J. Stephen Ferketic, Director of the Division of Criminal Justice, remarked: “Ensuring that our communities are free from bias incidents is a priority that deserves the efforts of all. By standing together to protect our young people from hatred, and by making them a part of the conversation, we show them the strength of our State.”

The competition encourages students to create projects or events focused on educating others about combating bias or celebrating diversity. Suggested projects include social media campaigns, cultural heritage celebrations, educational workshops, podcasts, art exhibitions among others.

Participants will enhance their understanding of civil rights through interactive virtual trainings led by DCR. Eligible participants must be New Jersey residents enrolled in grades 6 through 12. Project proposals are due by January 13, 2025.

This initiative follows other efforts by OAG, DCR, and DCJ to tackle harassment and discrimination within K-12 schools across New Jersey.

For more information about participating or filing complaints related to discrimination or harassment issues throughout New Jersey visit relevant official resources.