Responding to hate
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EmailThe Southern Law Poverty Center and the Anti-Defamation League have resources to address and respond to hate, bigotry, racism and anti-Semitism.
Recent worldwide events have been characterized by an increase in hatred and violence, influenced by elements such as political instability, economic turmoil and social unrest. These events have impacted individuals and communities throughout America, including Michigan. Groups and individuals are seeking deliberate methods to tackle these issues, document or take legal action against the offenders, to create more inclusive environments for everyone.
Two of our nation’s leading civil rights and human relations organizations, the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) and the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), have resources to address and respond to hate, bigotry, racism and anti-Semitism.
“We can fight hate and build community,” a publication from the SPLC, provides nine ways that community groups and individuals can fight hate. A sampling of the nine principles highlighted in this publication include:
- Support those harmed by hateful language and actions. Hate crimes and hate incidents can instill fear, ignite tensions and divide communities. When developing a response, the voices of those who have been targeted or harmed should be centered. Together, we must send this message: We condemn the hate, we see the targets of hate and support all victims.
- Come together— strengthen your local community. Volunteer, attend local events and support organizations that bring people together across differences. Support local organizations that are delivering culturally informed direct services to those who have been targeted or harmed. Create diverse coalitions — reach out to allies from places of worship, schools, clubs and other civic groups. Targeted communities must know they are not alone.
- Educate yourself. Hate speech, discrimination and bigotry can take many forms, including jokes. Being informed can effectively unmask hate groups and thwart their outreach. The SPLC’s Year in Hate & Extremism 2024 report and other resources on extremism can help expose these groups and their bigotry — and provides policy recommendations to help address their impact.
- Speak up against hate and discrimination. Don’t be a bystander to hate. Whether it’s in the halls of Congress, your state legislature or city council, a school board meeting, in school or a casual conversation, bigotry and hateful rhetoric cannot be tolerated. Hate thrives and is normalized when no one speaks against it.
“Responding to Hate” is a publication from the ADL which provides information and resources for responding to hate. Included in this publication are:
- A definition of a hate crime.
- How and why to report a hate crime to authorities and civil rights organizations.
- What is unlawful discrimination.
- How to respond to unlawful discrimination.
- What is a hate incident and how to respond to it.
Working together across our differences in our homes, spiritual communities, workplaces and other institutions to stand up against hate and other violence can help move us all toward greater acceptance and our American values of liberty and justice for all. Your voice matters.
Michigan State University Extension and Michigan 4-H Youth Development help to prepare young people for successful futures. To find out how to get involved as a youth participant or an adult volunteer, contact your county MSU Extension office.
