Rising Anti-Semitic Hate Crimes in Oklahoma Prompt Federal Action
West Michigan's chief federal prosecutor, Mark Totten, announced new steps to combat hate crimes and protect civil rights in the region. With hate crimes on the rise nationwide, Totten revealed two initiatives at the NAACP's Freedom Fund Gala and Awards ceremony. The first involves creating a team of four assistant U.S. attorneys dedicated to handling civil rights cases, including prosecuting hate crimes and protecting voting rights. The second initiative is the launch of a "United Against Hate" campaign, focused on educating the public about their federal civil rights protections and how to identify and report hate crimes. Totten's office is performing outreach through public events, bringing together civil rights groups, faith-based communities, and local organizations.