While we mention bullying regularly, we have not approached the question Is Racist Bullying A Hate Crime? There is no other answer than to say yes, but there are many factors of racism and racist bullying to consider. Racism is never okay, but it becomes even more difficult to accept when it is a form of bullying with our children.
IS RACIST BULLYING A HATE CRIME?
Bullying about appearance. We aren’t just talking about the color of skin in this. Many children are bullied about appearance because of things like hair texture and body types. While not everyone of color has curly hair or a fuller figure, many do. Girls of color will often be the target of more bullying by other races when it comes to being picked on regarding their hair, shape of their nose, lips or figure.
Bullying about social class. Unfortunately, minorities tend to be in situations where they are struggling to be above poverty level. Being bullied for being poor is common amongst all societal groups, but can be even more prevalent in those of minority race. The struggle to pay for things like education, transportation and basic living expenses can often lead to a child of color being bullied more than there Caucasian counterparts.
Bullying about stereotypes. Unfortunately racism continues to build stereotypes in our society. As a result, racist bullying has continued to become an issue. Bullying is not just something that happens to those who are seen as not as pretty or smart. Bullying happens because you or your family fits into a specific category that to some is unsavory. In racist bullying it can happen because your race is one that is viewed as inferior and in a stereotype that is unsavory.
Bullying is a genuine issue in society today. Our children have suffered this hate crime for far too long. Racist bullying is far too common and yes it is a hate crime. Bullying is a hate crime no matter what way you look at it. Hate filled acts against another person simply because you don’t agree with their lifestyle, their race or their upbringing are always wrong. They are always a crime. Perhaps racist bullying as a hate crime isn’t always prosecutable, but it is indeed a crime against humanity.
Educate your children on the fact that being of a different race is not a bad thing. We are all different and have wonderful things to give to the world. The color of your skin, religion or country of origin have nothing to do with your value as a human being.
Do you think racist bullying is a hate crime? Should it be punished differently than other types of bullying?
Any type of bullying is a hate crime to me. I’m against bullying and hope that we can stop it!
I absolutely would say it’s a hate crime and it makes me sad how prevalent it is!
Our world is full of hate. I feel like we need to focus on the good rather than the bad.
Anything racist is hateful. There is no excuse for bullying, some people just don’t know how to, and don’t have the means to, stop once they’ve gone too far.
Bullying is unacceptable in any form. When it is laced with racism this takes the bullying to another level. It needs to punished.
Bullying that has a racist or racial motive behind it is a special type of problem and that is why the hate crime laws were created. They were created to recognize the fact that while some behavior is wrong, the level of wrong is kicked up a notch when it adds certain components such as race. Children recognize race when they are in kindergarten and learn their colors. To think otherwise is not correct. It is not noticing race that is a problem, it is treating others improperly, unfairly or unjustly because of race that is a problem.
I do agree. Any bullying is wrong.
I would have to agree and say that if kids are involved it can be hard to say. Although bullying is not considered cool at all. I however would say yes if the kids are older and know better. It’s really a fine line.
This is such a thought provoking question. In my opinion, I think a lot of kids bully anyone who is different, be it race, or they have special needs or are overweight, etc.
Bullying of all forms is horrible! We need to do so much more to make this world better.
I grew up in a country, state and specifically in a city where I was part of a small minority of white people and racist bullying abounded – on both sides. To top it off, I’m also Jewish, so I was party of a teeny, tiny minority. I’ve been called horrible things growing up based on my religion and race. So my answer is yes, it’s a type of hate crime. Should it be punished differently? It would depend on the extent of the bullying. Words are one thing, physical attacks a whole other ballpark.
Depends on the situation, but it’s all wrong no matter how you classify it.
I think all racist and bullying is wrong. All forms of bullying I think are HATE CRIMES! I think BULLYING and HATE work together! There is no racist or bullying in Kindness or Love!
I think it happens in all directions and should stop. The emotional damage will happen with any type of bullying.
I believe it is a hate crime and should never be tolerated.
I’ve seen students bullied because their parents were poor. It’s heartbreaking to witness, and even more heartbreaking for those who have to experience it.
I agree with Lois’ comment – all racism and bullying needs to be stopped.
It disgusts me that racist bullying is still prevalent. I definitely made sure my kids didn’t bully anyone.
Bullying is unacceptable. It is getting out of hand and our children pay the price.
Any form of bullying or racism just have to stop. It’s so sad that people can’t just accept and celebrate each other.
Whether or not it’s technically a hate crime, bullying and racism are wrong. Period. No matter what it’s called, it’s time to appreciate all people for who they are – wonderful, individual creations of immeasurable value. Every. Single. Person. Period.
I agree with Robin. It really is a hate crime and its sad to see we are still seeing it happen.
It really is a hate crime with some of the cases. Some incidents just go too far.