​​​​SAN JOSE, CA – Schools and educational communities across Santa Clara County came together for United Against Hate Week, October 19-23, giving students opportunities to explore what it means to stand against hate and injustice and to use their voices to build more inclusive school communities.

This year’s participation increased across Santa Clara County. When the Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE) programs are included, the effort represents 10 educational agencies and 13 schools and programs across the county.

Growing participation builds on last year’s United Against Hate Week efforts, when students and educators participated in activities ranging from student videos and artwork to classroom and schoolwide activities that promoted student civic voice. Students in SCCOE programs participated in the campaign for the first time in 2025. 

This year, SCCOE also partnered with Little Justice Leaders to make participation easier and more accessible for educators. Together, they developed a United Against Hate Toolkit​ designed to provide meaningful, ready-to-use learning opportunities. The lessons give educators an approachable way to start conversations with students about what it means to stand united against hate while creating space for students to reflect, participate, and find their own voices.

Schools complemented these lessons with community-building activities that gave students opportunities to put those values into practice, from social justice game nights to kindness campaigns and conversations about creating more inclusive school communities.

The expanded effort reflects an important goal of United Against Hate Week: turning awareness into action. For SCCOE, that work begins with ensuring students know they have a voice and can play an active role in creating welcoming communities. As participation grows, so does the opportunity for students throughout Santa Clara County to recognize their own ability to speak up, support one another, and stand together against hate.