MILWAUKEE-- Local community leaders focused on hate crimes this weekend, holding a forum to help train residents on methods to recognize and work through actions that would rise to such a level.
Nearly a dozen city leaders gathered to participate in the event to help discuss specifics. Mahud Villalaz has first-hand experience dealing with hate-related incidents like this. He was assaulted outside of a local restaurant on November 1st during an incident charged as a hate crime.
"It's sad to know who are willing to hurt people because of their race or origin," Villilaz said during the event.
Since the assault occurred, Villalaz has been returning to public life by sharing his story with others.
"I'm very pleased to see so many people here," said Mayor Tom Barrett. "I think it's a recognition that the community and people in the community are not going to accept hate crimes," Barrett said.
Dozens of residents participated in the event. For more information on combating hate crimes, click here.
