Hate speech is another phenomenon of threat to the digital universe. The challenge is so extensive that it has gained global attention. Above all, it precedes different types of violence, especially against minorities. No continent on earth is free from the impact of hate speech.
Although online hate speech is a global concern there is no legal definition of it. Moreover, there is confusion between free speech and hate speech, and is still widely disputed. In common language, “hate speech” loosely refers to offensive discourse targeting a group, or an individual based on inherent characteristics - such as race, religion, or gender - that may threaten social peace. United Nations Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech defines hate speech as “any kind of communication in speech, writing or behaviour, that attacks or uses pejorative or discriminatory language with reference to a person or a group on the basis of who they are, in other words, based on their religion, ethnicity, nationality, race, colour, descent, gender or other identity factors." All internet platforms can become the agents of hate speech. However, since much of the world communicates on social media, it plays a prominent and convenient role in spreading online hate.
A study demonstrates that a significant number of adolescents and young adults are targeted by online hate speech. The effect of such hateful utterances can involve severe psychological harm, especially for youths who must master developmental tasks. We can duly state that online hate speech has become another field of “mission to the poor young” for the Salesians.
Significant efforts are being made to counter hate speech by the governments, religious groups, and other organizations. Nonetheless, Salesian communicators are being challenged to immerse into the digital universe and counter the online hate speech for the young and it can only be accomplished with the young.
The next session will be on the 20th October 2022. It is entitled: New Horizons in the Digital Landscape and our Pastoral Response. It will be presented by Fr. Keith Amodia. All are welcome to join in the session.
