The 20th & 21st Century American Hate Crime Epidemic: Hate Hidden Behind Rights

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2022-11-05

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Southern New Hampshire University

Abstract

While the term "hate crime" has evolved and developed over time, it is apparent that an "us versus them" and fear mentality has existed, dating back to early cultural interactions between indigenous peoples and colonists. When examining 20th and 21st-Century History, hate crimes are evident in nearly every secondary school history textbook across America. Students learn about actions the rise of the KKK and Japanese American internment, among other critical events throughout American history. However, historians or educators seldom tie instances of this nature together, nor are the questions of why being asked. Research has indicated that evolving interpretations of First Amendment Rights and the influence of the media play a significant role in the perpetuation of hate crimes in American Society. However, even though this research exists, the systemic nature of hate crimes needs further investigation. Ideally, further research and investigation would result in change, and the frequency of these events occurring would either decrease or disappear altogether. Part of this solution is a clear need to educate the country's youth. Secondary school students need facilitated opportunities to discuss uncomfortable topics like hate crimes. They need to be equipped with the information and skills to critically analyze a challenging and multi-faceted topic and be inspired that they have the power to stop the cycle of hate crimes in the United States.

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