Illinois Unites to Confront Hate at Champaign Conference

In an effort to confront extremism and promote human rights across Illinois, leaders and advocates joined together in Champaign for an anti-hate conference.

Illinois Unites to Confront Hate in the State

More than 200 participants gathered together on Tuesday (10/21) in Champaign, Illinois, for the 2025 Illinois Together Against Hate: Human Rights in Action Conference.

According to the press release, this is a landmark event that unites civil rights advocates, policymakers, and community members in the light against hate and extremism.

A Collaboration Effort for Change

The Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR), the Illinois Commission on Human Relations (CHIR), and the City of Champaign's Equity and Engagement Department partnered to create a forum that focused on strengthening statewide collaboration and advancing equity initiatives.

The event focused on practical, evidence-based strategies to prevent hate crimes and bias-driven violence across Illinois communities.

Voices Leading the Movement

Keynote speaker at the event, Dr. Cynthis Miller-Idriss, founder of the Polarization and Extremism Research and Innovation Lab at American University, highlighted Illinois' leadership in countering hate and fostering democratic resilience.

This event comes at exactly the right time and gives me hope that the urgency and commitment Illinois brings to this issue will shine a light for the rest of the country. -Dr. Cynthis Miller-Idriss, founder of the Polarization and Extremism Research and Innovation Lab at American University

Empowering Illinoisians Through Action

Officials encouraged residents to report hate incidents through the Help Stop Hate initiative, launched in 2024 as a confidential, multilingual reporting system that connects victims with trauma-informed care and legal aid.

By convening these important conversations, we're taking practical steps to make all Illinoisians safer. -IDHR Director Jim Bennett

To report acts of hate safely and anonymously in Illinois, call 877-458-HATE between noon and 9 pm Central time, Monday through Friday, or visit ILStopHate.org.