Hate Crimes in US Reach All-Time High in 2021, FBI Data Shows

(MENAFN) New data released by the FBI on Monday revealed that hate crimes in the United States reached an all-time high in 2021. The analysis of data from last year showed a 12 percent increase in the number of hate crimes recorded, with a total of 9,065 incidents reported compared to 8,120 in the previous year. Despite early indications of a drop in hate crimes, the figures from some of the largest United States cities such as New York and Los Angeles revealed a different story.

Brian Levin, the director of the Center for the Study of Hate & Extremism at California State University-San Bernardino, noted that the US is currently experiencing a disturbing era where hate crimes are remaining elevated for longer, with broken records being punctuated by new highs. According to the FBI report, black people were the largest group to have been targeted by hate crimes, with 2,233 instances recorded. The report also revealed that 64.5 percent of hate crime victims were targeted based on their race, ethnicity or ancestry, while 15.9 percent of cases were linked to bias against sexual orientation and 14.1 percent were based on religious beliefs.

The rise in hate crimes is a troubling trend and highlights the ongoing challenges faced by minority groups in the United States. It is a reminder of the need for greater efforts to promote tolerance, understanding and respect for diversity, as well as the importance of continuing to combat hate crimes through education, awareness and stronger legislation. The FBI's report serves as a wake-up call for society to address the root causes of hate crimes and to work towards a more inclusive and accepting future for all.

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