www.TeachingTolerance.org

1. Act. Do something. Doing nothing or saying nothing can be interpreted as acceptance. Suggest some action. Host a meeting addressing concerns. Sign a petition. Attend a vigil. Lead a prayer. Paint over graffiti.
   
   
2. Unite. Call friends, neighbors, and co - workers. Organize a group from church, clubs, or other civic sources. Get others involved. Help victims of hate crimes or organize a prayer vigil. Get the message to the community that hate is not acceptable.
   
   
3. Support the Victims. Let them know you care. Surround them by people they feel comfortable and safe with.
   
   
4. Do your homework. Learn about hate groups, their location, and graffiti identifying them. Accurate information can then be spread to the community. Local law enforcement as well as agencies such as the Southern Poverty Law Center can provide information.
   
   
5. Create an Alternative. Do not attend a hate rally. Confronting hate by yelling, shouting, etc. only serves the haters and burdens law enforcement. Find alternative outlets for anger and frustration. Hold a unity rally or parade.
   
   
6. Speak Up. Informed communities are the best defense against hate. Saying nothing can give the wrong message. While speaking up, avoid conflict discussions. Arguing and shouting discredits your cause and solves nothing. State your facts and your feelings in an assertive manner without yelling to get your point across.
   
   
7. Lobby leaders. Politicians, businessmen, and community leaders can all be persuaded to take a stand against hate.
   
   
8. Look Long Range. Have your group organize annual events such as cultural fairs to celebrate diversity.
   
   
9. Teach Tolerance. Encourage schools, churches, and community programs to celebrate diversity and teach tolerance.
   
   
10. Dig Deeper. Explore issues that divide. Work against discrimination. Look inside yourself for prejudices and stereotypes.