Suffolk County Officials Urge All To Speak Out Against Hate Crimes, Bigotry

HAUPPAUGE, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- A regional increase in hate crimes since Election Day has officials in Suffolk County calling attention to the problem and urging all to speak out against bigotry.

As WCBS 880's Mike Xirinachs reported, painted swastikas, Ku Klux Klan fliers, and racist language has had county officials speaking out.

County Executive Steve Bellone is calling on all elected leaders, including President-elect Donald Trump, to do the same.

"I think one of your most basic responsibilities as a public official is to work to bring people together, not to divide people apart," Bellone said.

Suffolk County Human Rights Commission Executive Director Dawn Lott said hate acts will not be tolerated in Suffolk County.

"An act against one is too many," Lott said.

The officials urged all to stand as one against bigotry.