Attorney General Kwame Raoul has addressed the issue of racist text messages being sent anonymously to Black and Brown Americans nationwide, including students. Raoul expressed his strong disapproval, stating, "Hate has no place in the state of Illinois. Full stop. I am outraged by reports of these offensive, racist texts and am particularly saddened to learn these hate-filled messages have even been received by students, including in Illinois."
He urged residents who receive such messages to contact local law enforcement or the Help Stop Hate Helpline and file a complaint with his office's Civil Rights Bureau.
The Civil Rights Bureau is responsible for protecting the civil rights of Illinois residents. It handles monitoring, investigating, and enforcing civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination on behalf of the state. The bureau also works to strengthen civil rights laws and engages in community outreach programs. The public is encouraged to report any discrimination or hate crimes via email at CivilRights@ilag.gov or by calling the Civil Rights Hotline at 877-581-3692.