NCJ Number
104223
Date Published
1987
Length
168 pages
Annotation
This 1987 report of Maryland Task Force on Violence and Extremism reviews the extent, causes, and prevention of racially, religiously, and ethnically motivated acts of bigotry, violence, and intimidation.
Abstract
The Governor's appointment of the task force in 1981 stemmed from an increase in the State of overt acts of violence and intimidation against specific racial, ethnic, and religious groups. This report discusses the nature and extent of the problem locally, statewide, and nationally. The task force sponsored 1981 and 1986 surveys of Maryland residents on their attitudes toward acts of violence and extremism. In the first survey, the overwhelming majority of Maryland residents in the sample disapproved of acts of racial or religious bigotry, and most felt such incidents should be countered by legal means and community pressures. The second survey revealed similar attitudes. The surveys did indicate, however, that many people believe civil rights issues were resolved in the 1960's. Young adults demonstrate less tolerance for differences than other age groups. The report discusses relevant incident reporting and recording by police, the adequacy of Maryland law in addressing the problem, and ways in which various Maryland communities have addressed the problem through preventive education and the enhancement of human and community relations. A significant effort of the task force was the creation of the National Institute Against Prejudice and Violence to coordinate information and activity pertinent to the problem. Task force recommendations target improved coordination of efforts against violence and extremism. 16 tables.