The UCHRC is proud to be a sponsor of the annual Standing Together Against Hate Forums, which are presented by the Union County Commission Against Hate, under the able leadership of Terri Warmbrand.
The 2005 Forum, “Until Justice & Peace Embrace: Combating Racism & Impunity in Union County and Across the World,” |
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provided a perspective on community-based approaches to promote the disclosure of racist acts and crimes and human rights abuses, and to prevent them in the future. The program was presented by Assistant Prosecutor John Esmerado of the Union County Prosecutor’s Office, who is the recipient of the UCHRC’s 2006 Award for Achievement by Law Enforcement. Drawing upon the prior experiences of the Truth & Reconciliation Commissions worldwide, he explore why this model is important in New Jersey -- particularly because only 49 percent of all criminal events are reported to the police. While investigating the violence inspired by racism and ways to ensure perpetrator accountability, he also spoke about the psychology of motivating victim requests, and methods of practical reconciliation including monetary damages, verbal apologies, and offers of forgiveness.
The 2004 Forum featured a presentation by Lt. Edwin Torres of the New Jersey Department of Corrections, “Gang Attraction Among Our Youth.” Lt. Torres provided an up-close and personal look at gangs that are actively recruiting our children. Joining a gang destroys their lives and the lives of their families and friends. Their activities -- often criminal and extremely violent -- also leaves a wake of innocent victims. Both programs heightened the awareness of these issues to the attendees, and encouraged proactive participation to intervene to keep our children and communities safe. |
