The City of New Bedford is a No Place for Hate® Community.  Certified by the Boston regional office of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) five years ago, New Bedford conducts at least four programs and initiatives to prevent hate crimes and promote understanding annually to retain its certification.  The Office of Human Services has been the New Bedford lead in this program.  The ADL has provided the Office with annual matching grants that have funded:

	KidsWeave – a diversity quilt displayed in City Hall made by the participants of the Invest-in-Kids Program
	No Place for Hate®  - Shining Lights – a 16-month calendar made by children whose immigrant parents were enrolled in ESOL classes
	Together at the Table – a multicultural cookbook and oral history project where local elementary students interacted with immigrant families to learn about culture through food.
	Culturally diverse cookbook by middle school students and a sculpture project by children who have disabilities
	Dolls for Darfur – a doll-making project by middle school students at the New Bedford Art Museum. The dolls were fashioned after New Bedford historical figures and sent to children in Darfur

During 2009-2010, the No Place for Hate Committee will explore topics relevant to current events in New Bedford, including interfaith peace initiatives, efforts to reduce homophobia, and an examination of the myths surrounding immigrants and immigration. The Office of Human Services, in collaboration with other city departments and local agencies, plans to develop a program giving recognition to local organizations and groups that actively promote diversity and combat prejudice and bigotry.

For regional material, go to the Anti-Defamation League’s website: www.adl.org. For more information on New Bedford’s No Place for Hate® Program:

Contact: Mali Lim, No Place for Hate
Phone: 508.961.3020
E-Mail: Mali.Lim@newbedford-ma.gov