Office for the Prevention Of Hate Crimes Announces ‘HeARTwork Against Hate’ Youth Art Contest

September 3, 2020

New art contest engages young New Yorkers to creatively express the values that celebrate New York City’s diversity and unity on the one-year anniversary of OPHC’s launch

NEW YORK—The Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes (OPHC) today announced the launch of the “HeARTwork Against Hate” art contest for New York City youth to creatively express the positive values that make our City great while raising awareness about how everyone can stand against all forms of bias, discrimination, and hate.

“‘HeARTwork Against Hate’ is an exciting opportunity for the City's youth to celebrate New York's unwavering commitment to respect, diversity, and unity — everything that makes our City and democracy great,” said Deborah Lauter, Executive Director of the Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes. “Especially now, as we work together to overcome great challenges for this city and the country, this initiative will enable young New Yorkers to use creative expression and open their hearts and minds to how we can all stand up to the stereotypes and prejudices that fuel hate violence.”

New Yorkers ages 10 through 18 can participate. Winning submissions will be featured on the OPHC website as well as on digital displays across the city to showcase participants’ talents and remind all New Yorkers of the importance of standing together against hate.

Thanks to a generous partnership with the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City, participants will be eligible for prize money:

1. First Place: $500
2. Second Place: $250
3. Third Place: $100
4. Honorable Mention (3): $50

Learn more about “HeARTwork Against Hate,” review all rules at nyc.gov/stophate and download the submission form. The deadline for entries is September 30.

Embedded in the Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice (MOCJ), OPHC launched in September 2019 following its creation by Mayor Bill de Blasio and the New York City Council. The office takes a holistic approach to prevent and respond to hate crimes, develops and coordinates community-driven prevention strategies to address biases fueling such crimes, and fosters healing for victims and their communities.

“Young people’s creative energy has always been a source of inspiration when it comes to addressing the urgent issues in our city,” said Elizabeth Glazer, Director of the Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice. “We’re excited to help showcase young New Yorkers’ expressions of diversity and unity, and are proud of the Office for Prevention of Hate Crimes’ ongoing commitment to prevent hateful acts that hurt our most vulnerable communities.”

“The creative energy, conviction, and compassion of young New Yorkers is what will shape the future of our city,” said Toya Williford, Executive Director of the Mayor's Fund to Advance New York City. “Rewarding our young people for expressing themselves and standing up for one another is a wonderful way to ensure New York City is a place where hate has no home. We are honored to join with OPHC on this vital initiative.”

For general questions, participants can email OPHC@cityhall.nyc.gov.