What are Hate Symbols?

GRADE LEVEL: High School

Overview

We see symbols every day in all aspects of our lives. Symbols are used to represent ideas, qualities, emotions, material objects, products, opinions and beliefs. However, symbols can also convey hate and bias. In recent years, we have seen an increase in hate symbol graffiti in public spaces. These symbols are displayed on school and college campuses, sidewalks, places of worship, online, on doors, buildings, doors of offices and residences, buses, school and public bathrooms, vehicles and other places.

In this activity, students will:

• Reflect upon the power and significance of symbols in our society.
• Learn about specific symbols like the swastika and noose, the impact it has on people and what can be done.
• Create their own symbol that reflects the opposite of hate, namely love, respect, diversity, inclusiveness, equity or justice.