Press Release  Healey-Driscoll Administration Hosts Statewide Civil Rights Symposium

NORWOOD — The Healey-Driscoll Administration today convened more than 200 law enforcement professionals from agencies across Massachusetts for the third annual statewide Civil Rights Symposium. Hosted by the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) in partnership with the Municipal Police Training Committee (MPTC) and the Massachusetts State Police (MSP), the daylong program focused on deepening law enforcement’s understanding of civil rights issues, community policing best practices, hate crime investigations, and advancing public safety through education and collaboration. 

“Hate has no place in Massachusetts, and every resident deserves to feel safe in their community,” said Governor Maura Healey. “We're bringing together law enforcement from across the state because protecting civil rights and keeping people safe go hand in hand. This training helps ensure officers have the tools to prevent and respond to hate crimes while strengthening trust with the communities they serve.”

“Building safer communities takes partnership, education and trust,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This symposium brings together law enforcement, legal experts and community leaders to share best practices and strengthen our collective response to hate crimes across Massachusetts.”

“The Healey-Driscoll Administration recognizes the importance of civil rights in making Massachusetts the best place to live, work, and raise a family.” said Secretary of Public Safety and Security Gina Kwon. “By continuing to invest inspecialized training like this, we equip those on the front lines to apply principles in the context of their work as police officers, prosecutors, and community partners. If we respond effectively to hate crimes in support of victims and survivors, we will continually improve safety and confidence throughout our communities.”

This civil rights training brought together law enforcement leaders, legal experts, public safety professionals, and community partners to examine critical issues impacting our communities Through presentations, panel discussions, and interactive breakout sessions, attendees engaged in meaningful conversations centered on civil rights, legal standards, crisis management, restorative justice and community healing. 

In the latest available crime stats, Massachusetts saw a 9% year-over-year reduction in hate crimes. In 2025, Massachusetts recorded 427 hate crime incidents and 443 offenses, down from 467 incidents and 481 offenses in 2024. Anti-Black incidents remained the most commonly reported bias, while anti-Jewish incidents declined from 144 to 105, though they remained above 2022 levels.

“Understanding the true impact of hate crimes extends beyond the investigations, these offenses impact individuals, families and entire communities. Through continued specialized education like this symposium, we are strengthening our collective response to hate crimes while reinforcing our commitment to justice, community trust and public safety.” said MPTC Executive Director Colonel Rick Rathbun (Ret.).

"Events like this underscore the importance of collaboration between law enforcement and our communities in addressing the complexities of hate-based investigations. By working together, we can better support those impacted by these incidents, strengthen our collective efforts to prevent future acts of hate, and continue building safer, more inclusive communities. The Massachusetts State Police and the HART Team are proud to participate in this annual event," said Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoffrey Noble.

Throughout the day, participants attended breakout sessions designed to provide practical tools and real-world perspectives. One session explored implicit bias and strategies to promote fair and equitable policing. Another, led by community activist Leon Ford, examined how stress, trauma and lived experiences shape interactions between law enforcement and the public, emphasizing empathy, communication and trust.

"I've been on the other side of a badge in the worst way possible, and I've spent years since then trying to understand how we rebuild trust after moments like that," said Leon Ford, CEO of The HEAR Foundation. "Restorative justice isn't about letting anyone off the hook, it's about creating space for accountability and healing to exist in the same room. That's the work of the HEAR Foundation, and it's the work I hope every officer in this symposium walks away thinking about. Public safety and civil rights aren't opposing goals, they're the same goal, and we get there together or not at all."

 The symposium builds on the Healey-Driscoll Administration's broader efforts to combat hate, strengthen public safety and support communities across Massachusetts, including:

• Hate Crimes Awareness and Response Team (HART): Launched by the, Massachusetts State Police in November 2023, HART strengthens the statewide response to hate crimes and hate-based incidents. In 2026, the Anti-Defamation League New England (ADL New England) recognized the team for its leadership in combatting antisemitism and protecting communities. 
• Grants to Protect Nonprofits from Hate Crimes: In March 2026, The Healey-Driscoll Administration awarded nearly $5 million to nonprofits that are at high risk of a hate crime or extremist attack through the state-funded Commonwealth Nonprofit Security Grant Program and Commonwealth Nonprofit Security Personnel Grant Program to help organizations at high risk of hate crimes or extremist attacks improve security. Since 2023, the Office of Grants and Research has awarded nearly $19.9 million in state and federal funds to support nonprofits at risk of hate crimes or extremist attacks.
• Faith-Based Organizations Safety and Security Seminar: In November 2025, the Massachusetts State Police Fusion Center hosted its seventh annual security summit  at Gillette Stadium, bringing together faith leaders and public safety and security officials  to strengthen security at houses of worship and other community facilities. The State Police will share information about the 8th Annual Seminar this fall.

###