Theme of the Month - Hate Crime

What is Hate Crime?

Hate crime is any incident committed against a person or property that is motivated by malice or ill-will towards people because of their sexual orientation, transgender identity, disability, race, or religion.

Hate crimes and incidents can include (but are not limited to):

• Physical assault

• Obscene calls or gestures

• Intimidating or threatening behaviour

• Graffiti

• Vandalism

• Spitting

• Hate mail

• Abusive name calling

Hate crime also covers any situation of malice or ill-will against a group as a whole without the need for an individual victim.

Types of Hate Crime

Hate crime can fall into one of three main types: physical assault, verbal abuse and incitement to hatred.

Physical Assault

Physical assault of any kind is an offence. Depending on the level of the violence used, a perpetrator may be charged with common assault, actual bodily harm or grievous bodily harm.

Verbal Abuse

Verbal abuse, threats or name-calling can be a common and extremely unpleasant experience for minority groups.

Victims of verbal abuse are often unclear whether an offence has been committed or believe there is little they can do. However, there are laws in place to protect you from verbal abuse.

Incitement to Hatred

The offence of incitement to hatred occurs when someone acts in a way that is threatening and intended to stir up hatred. That could be in words, pictures, videos, music, and includes information posted on websites.