TEN WAYS TO FIGHT HATE

The incendiary nature of the presidential campaign has energized the radical right. We saw it last weekend in Charlottesville, where a young woman was killed during a white supremacist rally. We’ve seen it in the uptick of hate crimes in cities across the

ACT

Do something. In the face of hatred, apathy will be interpreted as acceptance by the perpetrators, the public and — worse — the victims. Community members must take action. If we don’t, hate persists.

JOIN FORCES

Reach out to allies from churches, schools, clubs and other civic groups. Create a diverse coalition. Include children, police and the media. Gather ideas from everyone, and get everyone involved.

SUPPORT THE VICTIMS

Hate crime victims are especially vulnerable. If you’re a victim, report every incident — in detail — and ask for help. If you learn about a hate crime victim in your community, show support. Let victims know you care. Surround them with comfort and protection.

SPEAK UP

Hate must be exposed and denounced. Help news organizations achieve balance and depth. Do not debate hate group members in conflict-driven forums. Instead, speak up in ways that draw attention away from hate, toward unity.

EDUCATE YOURSELF

Know who you’re dealing with. Are they a hate group? Have they caused trouble in other cities? Do your research.

CREATE AN ALTERNATIVE

Do not attend a hate rally. Find another outlet for anger and frustration and for people’s desire to do something. Hold a unity rally or parade to draw media attention away from hate.

PRESSURE LEADERS

Elected officials and other community leaders can be important allies. But some must overcome reluctance — and others, their own biases — before they’re able to take a stand.

STAY ENGAGED

Promote acceptance and address bias before another hate crime can occur. Expand your comfort zone by reaching out to people outside your own groups.

TEACH ACCEPTANCE

Bias is learned early, often at home. Schools can offer lessons of tolerance and acceptance. Host a diversity and inclusion day on campus. Reach out to young people who may be susceptible to hate group propaganda and prejudice.

DIG DEEPER

Look inside yourself for biases and stereotypes. Commit to disrupting hate and intolerance at home, at school, in the workplace and in faith communities.