The Hate Crimes Workgroup associated with the Emory Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Justice Committee (DISC) strive to respond to and address the aggressive and deplorable actions by individuals or groups based on nationality, religion, race, gender identification, sexual orientation, ethnicity, disability and/or being a refugee/immigrant, etc. Unfortunately, hate crimes are so frequent in our nation and our world and an everyday occurrence for a large number of individuals from marginalized groups, that we simply cannot do justice to all of them. We do our best to communicate with the community about some of the most prominent hate crimes events and/or those that may touch members of our community the most.
DISC members:
- Take active steps toward advancing a departmental culture in which values of safety, respect, support, freedom, empathy and compassion prevail
- Condemn extremism and any act in which anyone feels threatened or frightened or silenced
- Encourage everyone in our community to explore more deeply how to take actions to combat hate and take such actions
- Will do their best to replace hatred with an appreciation for and an understanding of differences and peace
The FBI’s most recent hate crime statistics reports 8,263 hate crime incidents involving >11,000 offences in 2020. Hate crimes most often relate to race/ethnicity/ancestry, sexual orientation, religion, gender identity, disability and gender, with many victims targeted for more than one bias. Unfortunately, the true incidence of hate crimes is much higher and rates of hate crimes are on the rise.
People victimized by violent hate crimes that reflect prejudice, stereotyping and discrimination experience more psychological distress than do victims of other violent crimes. Specifically, victims of crimes that are bias-motivated endorse higher rates of post-traumatic stress, depression and anxiety than do victims of crimes that are not motivated by bias and prejudice. In addition, since hate crimes send a message to members of the victim’s group that they are not welcome, the entire group feels victimized and less safe and secure. Further, witnessing prejudice and discrimination against one’s own sociodemographic group often results in more psychological distress and lowered self-esteem.
Here are some actions you can take to make a difference and help others respond in ways that support and care for those impacted by these hate crimes:
- Say something - If you see something or are a victim, say something - Report hate crimes or threats of hate crimes to your local police department (911) or to the FBI.
- Volunteer - There are incredible benefits for those who volunteer and care, including stress reduction and the activation of the immune response
- Local volunteer opportunities can be found on:
- Examples of organizations that fight against hate crimes and accept volunteers include:
- Support the victims
- Participate in trainings that teach about the history of hatred toward a particular group, or bring awareness to the growing number of hate communities on social media that use false information to spread hate, and/or that cultivate empathy
- Speak up and speak out using social media sites, websites, letters to the editors, print media, and places of worship
- Do not give debate or call attention to the Hate Group as this gives them more publicity
- Let your representatives and leaders know that you want them to take action; educate them on the issues and on your feelings - Try to make connections with your representatives and leaders before an event so they know you and have a connection
- Help make your community more connected - attend interfaith services, attend vigils and fairs, and honor the anniversaries of the victims and survivors
- Attend events that help build the community; donate to organizations that support victims and survivors; and help others by volunteering to help plant a garden, build a bench, add to a playground
- Make your interactions with others “safe(r) spaces” where caring can be expressed and diversity valued
- Reach out to the DISC Consultation Service for guidance on handling specific situations from an individual with relevant cultural experience or expertise
Our children and youth are particularly impacted by these crimes. As parents, teachers, mentors, and leaders, we need to be mindful of their developmental needs and concerns.
- Monitor your child’s/teen’s exposure to social media; do not let younger children see disturbing images in the media
- As soon as possible after your child has learned about a hate crime, talk to your child about the event in a way that is appropriate for their age and development so you can support them
- With older children, try to watch with them programs and updates on social media so you can discuss with them what they understand about the event and how they feel about what has happened
- Provide realistic information and support
- Help your child/youth engage in activities reflecting social justice- deliver meals to those shut-ins, volunteer at a shelter, help your child write a letter to the families or draw a picture expressing their feelings to send the survivors, the first responders, and leaders of the groups targeted by the hate crimes
The following are links to articles and information that can help you, friends, and family.
- Building Resilience to Manage Indirect Exposure to Terror
- Managing Your Distress in the Aftermath of a Mass Shooting
- When a Friend or Loved One Has Been Traumatized
- Vicarious Trauma Tool Kit
- Teaching Tolerance
- How to Talk to Children about Difficult News
- Take Real World Action
Hate crimes are not events that we take lightly. In light of our country’s history and current sociopolitical climate, we call on the Emory community and beyond to come together to make it clear that the actions of hate displayed by these individuals do not represent the values of our institution and surrounding community. These individuals do not speak for us and they do not define us. Marginalized identities are not choices, political affiliations, decisions, or attitudes. Instead, they are fundamental aspects of our dignity and who we are as human beings. Emory is a community of scholars, clinicians, administrators, and learners that are committed to cultivating an academic and human experience that teaches and epitomizes cultural equity, and we unequivocally reject attitudes that do not respect each person’s dignity.
We hope that 2022 brings with it more compassion and love in all hearts.