Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division on Civil Rights (DCR) have announced the winners of the No Hate in the Garden State Youth Competition. This competition, open to middle and high school students, is part of a broader effort to eliminate bias and discrimination in New Jersey.
The initiative, led by DCR in collaboration with the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ), invited students to develop projects or events aimed at educating communities on combating bias. A total of 233 students participated, submitting creative projects that promote diversity and inclusivity.
Attorney General Platkin emphasized the importance of addressing youth bias, stating, “In recent years, our schools have been the number one site of bias incidents in our state. Combating youth bias is a top priority for our office.” He praised the participants for their inspiring work towards a future free from hate.
Yolanda N. Melville, Director of DCR, highlighted the significance of listening to young voices for sustainable change: “Far too often, our young people witness or experience discrimination in their lives. If we want to build a better future, it’s imperative that we listen to their voices.”
Participants created various projects including multimedia presentations highlighting community diversity and interfaith dialogues. The competition was divided into two categories: middle school and high school.
In the middle school category:
- First place went to Colonia Middle School Multicultural Education Student Committee for initiatives like an interactive anti-bullying presentation.
- Second place was awarded to Avenel Middle School Allyship Club for creating a Sensory Sidewalk.
- Third place was given to Long Pond School in Sussex County for using theater with their play "Stand up."
In the high school category:
- Amnesty International Somerset Chapter won first place with workshops on bias recognition.
- Rumson Fair Haven Regional High School Gender/Sexuality Alliance (GSA) Club secured second place with an oral history project.
- Third place went to The Afterschool Podcast in Union County for podcast episodes focusing on student experiences with bias.
The No Hate in the Garden State initiative aims at reversing rising bias incidents across New Jersey while encouraging reporting. Developed by Kai Durant under Patricia Williamson's direction at DCR, this initiative forms part of ongoing efforts against discrimination statewide.
The New Jersey Division on Civil Rights works against discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations throughout New Jersey. It enforces several acts including ,the New Jersey Family Leave Act,,and others related .to fair chance housing To learn more about filing complaints or participating in programs like this youth competition,email .
The Bias Crime Bureau within DCJ investigates hate-motivated crimes statewide; reports can be made via Attorney General’s Bias Crime Hotline at 1 (800) 277-BIAS (2427).
