FBI Norfolk and Virginia State Police continue fight against hate crimes – The Virginian-Pilot

More than two decades ago, a University of Virginia student found her voice by remaining silent. Maria Pulzetti created a “Day of Silence” in 1996 because she felt the concerns, fears, and safety of LGBTQ youth were being ignored and silenced by school administrators and other adults. A year later, more than 100 institutions held their own “Day of Silence.” One student’s simple act of being heard became an invaluable tool in amplifying the voices and struggles of thousands across the country.

How many other people who live, work, study, or visit Virginia and identify with a marginalized population also feel silenced? It is here, in this vacuum of restraint, that most of the hate crimes that are the focus of concern for local, state, and federal law enforcement are committed.

From hate crimes against members of the Black community, to Asian Americans at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, to LGBTQIA+ individuals, to those struggling with the ongoing conflict in Gaza, victimization is an everyday reality for far too many people. While each case and the perpetrator’s intent may vary, hate crimes are typically committed based on the victim’s perceived or actual race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or disability.

Data shows that most hate crimes reported to the FBI’s Norfolk office and the Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation’s Chesapeake Field Office are motivated by racial bias. However, we recognize that even the best data does not paint an accurate picture of the problem. Hate crimes too often go unreported for a variety of reasons, but primarily due to distrust of law enforcement or the perception that even if a victim comes forward, justice may never be served.

That’s why effective community outreach is a top priority for the Norfolk FBI office and State Police. While our agencies aggressively investigate hate crimes throughout the region, our special agents and leaders are just as active in speaking with citizens and addressing their needs. Our FBI agents participate in community roundtables, such as the one hosted in Suffolk in March, and honor community leaders like Dr. Anthony Sandifer and the 200+ Men Inc. for the incredible change they make in the lives of others. State Police personnel regularly give safety talks at schools and churches in the Hampton Roads and Tidewater regions to help overcome distrust and misconceptions.

We value every opportunity to meet our marginalized communities where they are, understand their hardships, respect their needs, and provide them with the safety and justice they deserve. We also recognize that we cannot meet or connect with every person who needs us. If you or someone you know has been the victim of a hate crime, please contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or file a report with the Virginia State Police by dialing 77 from a cell phone anywhere in the state. By reaching out to us, we bring criminals to light and bring justice to those who deserve it.

No one should have to fear for their safety or have to speak out because of where they were born, what they look like, who they are, or whether they worship or not. Just as Maria Pulzetti’s “Day of Silence” did not end in silence, neither will we – the FBI or the Virginia State Police – end in silence in ensuring that those who deserve to speak are heard, understood and protected.

Brian Dugan is special agent in charge of the FBI Norfolk. Captain Tim Reibel heads the Chesapeake field office of the Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation.