The Riverbrook Regional YMCA in Wilton hosted interfaith leaders Sunday afternoon as part of a Confronting Hate seminar.

Community leaders said there has been a nationwide rise in hate crimes, which has also been felt locally. Panelists representing several faiths and communities said they’ve dealt with bomb threats, vandalism and hate speech at their own schools and places of worship.

“We are so much better than this,” said Cantor Harriet Dunkerley of Temple B’nai Chaim.

Panelists said these hate crimes threaten American values and hope the event will serve as a call to action.

“People of good will have to create a bigger wave of love, kindness, goodness, compassion and inclusivity,” said Sohair Omar. “This event is a testament to those efforts."

Organizers plan to develop a volunteer group dedicated to preventing local hate crimes and supporting victims.