NCJ Number
181117
Editor(s)
Richard Cohen
Date Published
1999
Length
32 pages
Annotation
Recognizing the significance of bias-related hate crimes in the United States, this guide outlines 10 principles for fighting hate crimes and includes a collection of stories of people who acted against hate in their communities.
Abstract
When bias motivates an unlawful act, it is considered a hate crime; 40 percent of bias crimes are targeted against blacks and 13 percent against whites, but the greatest growth in hate crimes in recent years is against Asians and homosexuals. Ten ways to fight hate crimes are suggested: (1) Do something because apathy in the face of hatred will be interpreted as acceptance; (2) Unite with friends, co-workers, churches, schools, and other civic organizations; (3) Provide support to hate crime victims; (4) Determine if a hate group is involved a particular crime and research its symbols and agenda; (5) Find alternative outlets for anger and frustration; (6) Expose and denounce hate and help news organizations achieve balance and depth; (7) Persuade politicians and business and community leaders to take a stand against hate crimes; (8) Create a bias response team that looks long-range; (9) Teach tolerance at home; and (10) Explore issues that divide, such as economic inequality, immigration, and homosexuality, and work against discrimination in housing, employment, and education. Photographs