Hate speech online is an ongoing threat to targeted communities, especially Latinos. The attacks in New Zealand, Pittsburgh, and Charlottesville also illustrate why far right ideologies that fester online endanger communities nationwide. In response to the public outcry over far right extremist recruitment and hate messaging on social media platforms, the Anti-Defamation League and New America convened a panel of experts to discuss emerging threats from online extremism.
The event opened with remarks from Rep. Katherine Clark, Vice Chair of the House Demoncratic Caucus. Francella Ochillo, the National Hispanic Media Coalition’s Vice President of Policy & General Counsel, discussed the far-reaching and lasting impact that hate speech online has on Latino communities. She explained how the trickle-down effect can deter Latino Americans and other immigrant populations from obtaining health care, enrolling children in school, participating in the census, or exercising voting rights.
The Targets of Hate panel was moderated by Adam Neufeld (Anti-Defamation League). Other panelists included Nora Benavidez (PEN America), Arusha Gordon (Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law) and Shahid Rahman (American Muslim Institution).
