Methods for Reporting Hate Incidents:
An Environmental Scan and Literature Search
Hate-motivated incidents and crimes are a growing concern in communities across Canada and beyond, yet they often go unreported due to barriers such as fear, lack of trust in authorities, or the absence of accessible and effective reporting mechanisms. To address this gap, students from St. Thomas University (STU) and the University of New Brunswick’s Renaissance College conducted an environmental scan to examine existing reporting platforms for incidents of hate. This report presents our findings on the strengths, limitations, and best practices of various reporting systems, with the goal of informing efforts to improve accessibility, responsiveness, and public trust in hate incident reporting.
The ability to report hate incidents safely and efficiently is crucial for individuals and communities affected by discrimination and violence. Effective reporting mechanisms not only provide support for victims but also contribute to broader social change by informing policy, guiding law enforcement, and fostering accountability. By analyzing existing platforms, this report aims to highlight key considerations for developing or enhancing reporting tools that empower individuals to report hate incidents while ensuring their safety and dignity.
The ability to report hate incidents safely and efficiently is crucial for individuals and communities affected by discrimination and violence. Effective reporting mechanisms not only provide support for victims but also contribute to broader social change by informing policy, guiding law enforcement, and fostering accountability. By analyzing existing platforms, this report aims to highlight key considerations for developing or enhancing reporting tools that empower individuals to report hate incidents while ensuring their safety and dignity.
