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Forum Tries to Support Hate Crime Reporting

The county Human Relations Commission launched an educational campaign Thursday with a forum on why lesbians may not be reporting hate crimes.

A recent commission survey found that hate crimes against lesbians were going unreported for a variety of reasons, including fears of insensitive treatment by police.

At the forum, leaders from the local gay community said police should learn to be more sensitive when dealing with hate crimes against lesbians. Law enforcement representatives said they are working to increase sensitivity through training programs.

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“We need more education, and we need to stress that you have the right to report,” said Barbara Muirhead, a gay and lesbian rights activist.

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