Retailers Join Congress in Standing Up Against Hate

The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) issued the following statement from Senior Executive Vice President, Public Affairs, Michael Hanson on the passage of the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act:

“Discrimination and hate crimes are intolerable. The increase in hate-driven incidents against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders is deeply disturbing and has left that community justifiably terrified and outraged. Retailers are committed to working against racially motivated hate so that everyone feels safe in this country.

“The legislation enacted today provides new opportunities for individuals to report hate crimes while giving law enforcement tools to prevent, address or respond to a hate crime. Retailers hope this will raise awareness about racially motivated offenses and ultimately move towards eradicating this inexcusable and criminal behavior.  

“Creating inclusive spaces where any form of hate or discrimination is condemned requires diligence and compassion. RILA will continue to seek out and support efforts to ensure that all customers and employees feel safe, valued, and respected as they live, shop, and work.”

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RILA is the US trade association for leading retailers. We convene decision-makers, advocate for the industry, and promote operational excellence and innovation. Our aim is to elevate a dynamic industry by transforming the environment in which retailers operate.

RILA members include more than 200 retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers, which together account for more than $1.5 trillion in annual sales, millions of American jobs, and more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities, and distribution centers domestically and abroad.

Tags

• Leading in the Community
• Keeping Communities Safe
• Diversity
• Workforce
• Ensuring a Safe, Sustainable Future
• Public Policy
• Retail Works for All of Us