New York City is currently witnessing a sharp increase in hate crimes against racial and religious minorities, including Asian-Americans, African-Americans, Jews, Muslims, Sikhs, and others. Along with government agencies and community organizations, attorneys are working to combat this troubling trend. This continuing legal education program helped attorneys understand the social and political forces that have led to the recent rise in hate crimes, as well as a range of legal, advocacy, and policy initiatives to combat hate crimes, including approaches drawing on restorative justice principles. Speakers included legal scholars, attorneys, civic officials, advocates, and community leaders. Panel discussions explored governmental and community-based responses to hate crimes. The program also featured keynote remarks by Judge Gary S. Katzmann, in memory of his brother Hon. Robert A. Katzmann, former chief judge of the Second Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals.
