Learning Objectives
- Define hate speech and understand its impact
- Recognise different forms of discrimination
- Understand the legal consequences of hate speech
- Develop empathy and respect for diversity
- Know how to respond to and report hate speech
Background Information
Hate speech is communication that attacks a person or group based on protected characteristics: race, religion, ethnicity, nationality, sex, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
Key Statistics:
- Hate crimes have increased significantly in recent years
- 50% of hate crimes are race-related
- Online hate speech has become increasingly common
- Young people are often both perpetrators and victims
Protected Characteristics (Equality Act 2010)
- Age
- Disability
- Gender reassignment
- Marriage and civil partnership
- Pregnancy and maternity
- Race
- Religion or belief
- Sex
- Sexual orientation
The Law
- Public Order Act 1986: Offences involving stirring up hatred
- Crime and Disorder Act 1998: Racially or religiously aggravated offences
- Criminal Justice Act 2003: Hate crime sentencing enhancement
- Communications Act 2003: Online hate speech is illegal
Consequences: Fines, community orders, or imprisonment. A hate crime conviction adds to sentences for other offences.
⚠️ Safeguarding Considerations
- Some pupils may have experienced hate speech or discrimination
- Others may recognise themselves as perpetrators
- Create a safe, non-judgmental environment for discussion
- Be prepared to challenge harmful views respectfully
- Report concerning incidents to your DSL
Support Resources
| Organisation | Contact |
|---|
| Tell MAMA (Anti-Muslim) | tellmamauk.org |
| CST (Antisemitism) | 0800 032 3263 |
| Stop Hate UK | 0800 138 1625 |
| True Vision | report-it.org.uk |