Ethnoviolence: Impact and Response in Victims and the Community (From Bias Crime: The Law Enforcement Response, P 93-103, 1991, Nancy Taylor, ed. -- See NCJ-136058)

• NCJ Number: 136066
• Author(s): J C Weiss
• Date Published: 1991
• Length: 11 pages
• Sale Source: University of Illinois at Chicago
• Publication Type: Survey
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

The National Institute Against Prejudice and Violence was created in 1984 to conduct applied research on the causes and effects of hate crimes, provide training for law enforcement personnel and campus administrators, and undertake other activities related to bias-related crimes.

Abstract

Although the lack of data collection systems in most jurisdictions has limited the information available on the extent of hate crimes, it is clear that many thousands of such incidents occur each year. In addition, hate groups exist in all parts of the country, although most of the crimes are committed by individuals in small groups that are unaffiliated with hate groups. Many victims, especially homosexuals and people who do not speak English, do not report these incidents to the police. However, a recent national victimization study revealed that 48 percent of the incidents that occurred in public places or neighborhoods were reported. In addition, 40 percent of the incidents involved psychological threats, while the rest were acts of vandalism, assault, and other crimes. Victims are similar to rape victims in the sense that they always feel vulnerable and at risk and isolate themselves to protect against further risk. Friends, neighbors, and relatives experience similar feelings and responses. To address the problem, cooperation and coalitions are crucial.