When a hate crime occurs, the focus of the incident is on the individual violated, or the property that was desecrated. However, depending upon the severity of the criminal circumstances, there will be silent parties who are also victimized. What must be taken into consideration is the trauma inflicted on family members, especially the children. Herein lies the result of collateral damage.

As proponents of advocating social harmony and solutions to eradicate bigotry, it is also incumbent upon us to assist these extended victims. We must be cognizant of the importance of insuring that the appropriate referral services are revealed. Individuals or establishments who have succumbed to hate crimes are entitled to counseling and mental health resources to promote recovery. We should ensure that updated and current information is readily accessible in furtherance of this critical issue.

No one person should be considered the sole victim of a hate crime. Families, children, or the targeted group of their association, are also affected. Hate crimes are offenses against society, and so there will always be collateral damage. It is our responsibility to make sure that the residual impact is recognized and addressed expeditiously. These types of offenses should be viewed as being holistic in their scope. Every effort should be made to minimize the extent of the afflicted parties. We are compelled to offer our voices to the benefit of the silent victims.

Dennis L. Blackman is Deputy Chief and Commanding Officer of the NYPD's Hate Crimes Task Force and a Member of the Partners Against Hate Advisory Board.