MANUAL

How to respond to hate? A ZEN BUDDHIST RESPONSE 49

Tricycle.org offers this helpful summary of Zen Buddhism:

A good summary of common features of Zen include an emphasis on simplicity and the teachings
of nonduality and nonconceptual understanding. Nonduality is sometimes described as “not one
not two,” meaning that things are neither entirely unified nor are they entirely distinct from one
another. Zen recognizes, for example, that the body and mind are interconnected: they are
neither the same nor completely separate. Nonconceptual understanding refers to insight into
“things as they are” that cannot be expressed in words.

Like all schools of Buddhism, Zen begins with an understanding that human beings suffer, and
it offers a solution to this suffering through recognizing the interconnectedness of all beings and
learning to live in a way that aligns with this truth.

Learn more about the Buddhist traditions here and here.
Learn more about ways to understand the Four Noble Truths here.
Learn more about the New Haven Zen Center here.

50 RESPONDING TO HATE MANUAL

SECTION 2: A Buddhist Response to hate

According to Zen Master Jok Um (Ken Kessel), Guiding
Teacher of the New Haven Zen Center, there is no Zen
approach to anything. While paradoxically Zen
Buddhism offers a “path” or a “vehicle”, one must not
cultivate attachment for the path. Ultimately each path
is individual; while on the path one endeavors to lose
one’s attachment to it and eventually to own the path
for oneself. The teachings of the Buddha and the
practices of Buddhism assist the worshipper in
walking the path; and the vehicle of Zen has a
particular flavor, because it resonates with those who
assume it. But the external portions are ‘architectural’
and serve the cultivation of internal sensibilities.
However, Master Jok Um emphasized that the path
cannot have too specified or rigid of a shape, for too
much architecture gets in the way of responsiveness.

A Zen Buddhist response to hate, then, might best be
described as remaining alert, balanced, and keenly and
deeply aware of the interconnectedness of ourselves
with others and the world. As Master Jok Um
remarked:

Please, don’t hate. Then you’ve already responded as well as you can. If you respond with hatred,
then you’re throwing gasoline on the fire. If you want the fire to go out, please don’t give it more
fuel. Some of the air we’re breathing was breathed by people who hate us. Some of the air we’re
breathing passed through plants and animals that are venomous.

Can we pick which molecules we prefer? And can we somehow purify those molecules so our air
doesn’t contain any of that? These things are impossible.

This kind of Zen realism is cultivated in practice and in presence. The core teachings on responding
to hate might best be taught through stories of our Zen Master which illustrate transformational
encounters.

How to respond to hate? A ZEN BUDDHIST RESPONSE 51

A demonstrative story

Though a central component of Zen Buddhism is relinquishing outer forms of self-discipline and the
unquantifiable nature of “the Buddhist path,” Master Jok Um related a story about Buddha’s
exemplary character that can be a source of guidance.

The Buddha was approached and spoken to in a derogatory manner. He responded by stating, “if you
come to my home and I prepare a feast in your honor and then you don’t eat the food, then to whom
does the food belong?” The man pondered for a moment and then said, “the food would belong to
you.” Buddha responded, “similarly, if you offer me an insult and I don’t accept it, then it belongs to
you.”

According to Master Jok Um, “an act that defiles a sacred space is an act of ignorance. If we respond
to that act of ignorance with hatred or aggression, then we’re affirming [and owning] the ignorance.”

A broader lesson can be derived from the story as a result of the storyteller. This tale was told over
by Osho (also known as Bhagwan Shri Rajneesh), who was a spiritual fraud that harmed many people.
Master Jok Um said Osho’s misconduct and the fact that this story about the Buddha was told by him
demonstrates the very point that the tale conveys. He asked, “should we revile [Osho] and therefore
dismiss the story? And refuse to learn what [the story] has to offer?”

Discussion Questions:

 Zen is not a system founded on logic and avoids engaging in intellectual analysis. Thus for a
“discussion question”, read aloud these lines contained in the chant for responding to hate
used by The New Haven Zen Center. Read them aloud at least 5 times, collectively or
individually.

Perceiving world sound reveals world suffering.
Perceiving world suffering reveals the compassionate heart.

Share your experience of these words.

 Can you think of a time when you insulted someone or acted without goodwill? Or when
someone acted this way toward you? How might this story above change your perception of
these events? And responses to these events?

52 RESPONDING TO HATE MANUAL

II. When hate is directed towards others

Often, when hate happens next door to us we approach the emotionally, spiritually, and/or physically
wounded and ask how we can assist the wounded in recovering. We tend to want to ensure that our
neighbors get back on their feet and help them respond in the way that restores the spirit and
restores the space. That’s an act of faith, and an act of commitment, and restoration, and in a way an
act of resistance. In supporting others, Master Jok Um emphasized: 1) the importance of locating the
unharmable part of a person and encouraging them to live into it while we affirm its worth. He
continued by stating unequivocally that the spirit cannot be tainted by hate; and 2) the promotion of
peace.

1. A demonstrative story about outreach and unharmed spirit

Master Jok Um shared: A few years ago, when I was walking home from the bank, there were rising
tensions between three men. One of the men was in an aggressive karate stance. Of the other two,
one was in a boxing stance; the other was in an I’ve-got-your-back stance. They seemed serious, and
they were mouthing off to each other. My first inclination was to walk by, because it wasn’t my
business, and I’m chicken. Then I noticed the fruit stand guy, and he seemed worried, so I didn’t just
walk by on the other side of the street. I walked close, and I said, “Do you guys want to get a cup of
coffee? And the boxing-stance guy said, “Yeah!” And the I’ve-got-your-back guy said, “Uh.” And the
karate guy upped the ante and started speaking more aggressively, so I asked him directly, “Do you
want to get a cup of coffee?” And he said, “OK.” So, I’m walking down to the McDonald’s with the
karate guy. And as we’re walking down the hill, they’re all shouting to each other what they would
have done to each other if I hadn’t been there. This dies down as we keep going. Farther down the
hill, I find out the karate guy is from Puerto Rico and I ask how his family is doing there because it
wasn’t that long after the hurricane. He said they were all OK. Then he told me that they used to call
his grandfather “Coffee.” The way he said it, it was as if it were some cosmic event that I’d shown up
and asked him for coffee – like I had just parachuted down from the heavens. Then we went to
McDonald’s; I got him coffee and we went our separate ways. This wasn’t my plan for the day. My
plan for the day was to meet my colleague at a bar to share a meal. But she was okay with waiting.
She liked the story.

Master Jok Um summed up: One way I treat my
practice is that I try to take all sentient beings
as my teacher. Because everybody teaches
everybody else about the space they occupy.
It’s important to learn how they occupy their
space so you can be able to co-shape it. So if I’m
balanced and alert, perhaps I can respond to
that space.

Credit: Stephanie Cui

How to respond to hate? A ZEN BUDDHIST RESPONSE 53

Discussion Questions:

 What practices help you to remain balanced and alert? How does being “balanced and alert”
affect interaction with the world?

 Have you had an experience where you were able to “co-shape” the space occupied by you and
another? How do you understand “co-shaping” in the context of the story?

2. A demonstrative story about educating and connecting for the
promotion of peace

In this photo, Daryl Davis (left) stands next to a

member of the KKK who became enamored by

Daryl’s musical talent during a show that Daryl

performed. They met at a bar and afterwards sat

for a drink where Daryl found out that he was

sharing a beverage with a man who held deeply

hateful beliefs that resulted in persecution and

murder of Black people. Over a shared drink, the

KKK member expressed that it was the first time

in his life that he had a drink with a Black man.

Daryl continued to meet with this man. He

states “I went in armed, not with a weapon,

but with knowledge. I knew as much about the Daryl Davis with member of the Ku Klux Klan.
Klan, if not more than many of the Klan people Credit: Daryl Davis

that I interviewed.” Eventually, the KKK

member admitted that he could no longer

continue to support the group's racist practices and handed over his robes to Daryl. Recognizing the

power of human connection, Daryl persevered and successfully changed the hearts of over 200 KKK

members, who all passed their robes onto him as a token of gratitude. Daryl points out the

incommensurability between sincere conversation and aggression. He claims that when two enemies

are talking they are no longer fighting, so we must always engage and acknowledge the humanity of

one another that no amount of wrongdoing can ever erase.

Discussion Questions:

 What stories does your tradition hold about transforming hate (in oneself and/or in others)
to compassion?

 Redo this exercise from above: read aloud these lines contained in the chant for responding
to hate used by The New Haven Zen Center. Read them aloud at least 5 times, collectively or
individually.

54 RESPONDING TO HATE MANUAL

Perceiving world sound reveals world suffering.
Perceiving world suffering reveals the compassionate heart.
Share your experience of these words in relation to Daryl’s story.

III. On Co-Shaping the Space Between

A demonstrative story

Master Jok Um shared two subway stories.

He said: One day I’m on the subway, and a woman

gets on, and she starts mumbling, ranting, and

raving, and it’s kind of hard to make out and follow

what she’s talking about. She goes on for a while

and it’s not clear who she’s talking to or what she’s

talking about. And people are responding

nonverbally, and it doesn’t look great for her. At the

next stop somebody gets up from a seat that she’s

Credit: Gary Stewart Smith not so far from, so I look at her and I look at the seat,
and she sits down. She’s still ranting and raving, but

now she’s in a confined space. At the next stop, the

person next to her gets up from the seat and she looks at me and she nods to the empty seat.

(Laughter). So now I’m in trouble. (Laughing.) So I sit next to her and she continues ranting and

raving, and she’s kind of looking at me. But at least now it’s just us, instead of everyone. I wasn’t

intending any of this, but this is how it happened. So I looked at her and I said, “I think you’re making

perfect sense. I happen to agree.” And she looked at me, like which one of us is crazy now. (Laughing.)

Then I said, “If I’m following you, they keep raising the fares for the subway, and the service keeps

getting worse, so where’s the money going? And shouldn’t we be protesting? And yeah I think we

should— I don’t know where the money’s going just like you.” And she kinda nods. I continue, “What

you’re saying makes sense, but the way you’re saying it scares people. If you yell like that people

won’t listen because it makes them back away.” And then she looks at me and says, “Maybe I should

stop drinking.”

Later that day a guy gets on the subway— it’s very cold outside— and he’s wearing an Under Armor
shirt, a short sleeve shirt, and Under Armor shorts— and he’s got a tattoo and earrings, and he’s got
a can of Pepsi and he’s singing loudly. And what he’s singing is, “Go away leave me alone, go away
leave me alone.” And I believed him. So I let him have the space.

How to respond to hate? A ZEN BUDDHIST RESPONSE 55

The second person was looking for a way of creating space and he was very good at it, and I respected
his skills. So people will tell you in some way or another what they need and about the space they
occupy.

Discussion Questions:

 How does the perspective of interconnectedness generate engaging and intervention as
opposed to “bystanding”?

 Redo this exercise from above: read aloud these lines contained in the chant for responding
to hate used by The New Haven Zen Center. Read them aloud at least 5 times, collectively or
individually.

Perceiving world sound reveals world suffering.
Perceiving world suffering reveals the compassionate heart.

 Share your experience of these words in relation to Master Jok Um’s subway stories.

56 RESPONDING TO HATE MANUAL

SECTION 3: Restoration of the spirit through promotion
of peace: highlights from the New Haven Zen Buddhist
Center for How to Respond to Hate

Preventative:

1. Develop relationships with interfaith and community leaders
2. Familiarize yourself with your own and other religious and spiritual stands against hate

*Link to full list of preventative actions

Post-Hate response:

1. Hospitality
2. Educate

*Link to full list of post-hate response

Practical Questions:

1. How will your group present themselves in group vigils and prayer circles?
2. Who is charged with organizing supportive efforts?

Consider assigning two volunteers in the community
*Link to full list of practical questions

Read the full transcription of our program at Buddhist Zen Center here:
Lessons from the visit to the New Haven Zen Center on March 4, 2020

The New Haven Zen Center promotes inner peace through restoration of the spirit in the
face of hatred and ignorance.

“Zen means discover your true self and help others.” Zen Master Seung Sahn

CHAPTER 7

How to Respond to Hate?

An Islamic Response

This chapter is the Islamic Response to Hate inspired and informed by a discussion led by Imam
Ismail Ulghar from the Nugget Mosque of Toronto, Canada.32

32 Our site visit was conducted at the Masjid al-Islam, but our collaboration with the Nugget Mosque in Toronto informed
this chapter.

58 RESPONDING TO HATE MANUAL

SECTION 1: What is the Islamic tradition?

Islam was founded by the prophet Muhammad (pbuh - peace and blessings be upon him), called “The
Prophet”, who was born in 570 C.E. in Mecca, which is modern day Saudi Arabia. In 610 C.E., an
archangel (Gabriel) appeared to Muhammad and commanded him to proclaim the goodness of God
and warn of the imminent judgement day to Arab tribes.

The Qur’an (spelled phonetically Koran) is the holy book of Islam and was orally transmitted in
Arabic during Muhammad’s lifetime and written down by his followers after his death. Believers say
that it contains the world of Allah, or God. The Qur’an is divided into 114 suras (chapters). According
to Muslims, everything can be found in the Qur’an that is needed for a God-pleasing life. It contains
chapters on faith conditions, ritual obligations, laws governing social order, and moral and ethical
principles. The early Islamic community also codified all of the rules for Islamic living into what is
called Sharia. Sharia is Divine law (literally it means the path to a spring, in Modern Standard Arabic,
a street).

The record of words and deeds of the prophet Muhammad also came to be to be considered

authoritative and are collected in what is called the Hadith. The Hadith includes exemplary tales

based on the life of Muhammad, his decisions in many questions about early Muslim community and

exemplary activities of the first disciples. The two major sects of Islam are Sunnism and Shi’ism, each

have their own versions of Hadith (learn more about the various Islamic movements in this more

extensive summary of Islam in the section titled “major divisions”).33
3F2

Islam is the second largest religion in the world, with approximately 1.8 billion followers. The
followers of Islam are called Muslims. They constitute a majority in 48 countries around the world
and a significant minority in many others. The main geographical areas in which Islam is practiced
are the Middle East, Asia, and Africa, with sizeable Muslim communities in Europe. Islam is also the
third largest and fastest growing religion in the United States (to learn more about Islam in detail in
this summary of the tradition).

33 Vanessa J Avery, Dealing with Diversity, 2000, 82-4.

How to respond to hate? AN ISLAMIC RESPONSE 59

SECTION 2: An Islamic Response to Hate

In a discussion on December 8, 2020, Imam Ismail Ulghar - leader of the Nugget Mosque of Toronto -
presented two layers to bear in mind when considering hatred towards the vulnerable. The first is
how to confront the claim that Islam is a source of violence. The second is that to do when other
religious communities have been attacked. The two are ultimately interconnected by a common
theme. In both cases the Imam described the religious call to personal responsibility for others --
specifically -- Islam ought to guide responses toward hate directed at one’s own group as well as
aggression towards others in our midst and around the globe.

I. When hate is directed toward Muslims

According to Imam Ulghar, at the heart of being a good Muslim and properly understanding the
Qur’an, is reflecting the compassion of God that was perfectly emulated in the life and actions of the
Prophet (pbuh). Imam Ulghar began his presentation by citing the beginning of the Qur’an itself,
which starts with the phrase “in the name of God, the most merciful, the most compassionate.” This
sentence, the basmallah, is the introduction to all 114 chapters of Qur’anic revelation. The Imam

Imam Ismail Ulghar in public prayer for those harmed in the Christchurch shootings.
Credit: photograph provided by Imam Ismail Ulghar

60 RESPONDING TO HATE MANUAL

points out that God’s nature mirrors mercy and compassion. Therefore, those following God must
exemplify these traits.

The Imam provided ample sources with the Qur’anic presentation of: peace, neighborliness, and
proper reactions to aggression -- for religious Muslims or members of other traditions that may have
misconceptions about Islam. He connected these sources to the Christchurch shootings at two
mosques in March of 2019 as well as the Sri Lanka Easter Bombings of April 2019.

A demonstrative story

The following photograph was taken outside

of the memorial made to honor the lives of

the 51 murdered Muslims in Christchurch,

New Zealand. Their lives were taken by a

white supremacist. Imam Ulghar spoke

about the vigil he attended in Canada to

honor the lives lost. He stated that revenge is

never a proper response to persecution,

bringing up the example of the Prophet Man prostrating outside of mosque after Christchurch shootings
Credit: AAP/Mick Tsikas
conquering Mecca in 630. This victory came

for Muhammad after years of relentless

oppressive treatment for preaching a message of radical monotheism in a polytheistic setting.

Muhammad lived in constant fear for his life prior to 629/30 and needed to flee to Medina to save

himself from Meccan tribes. Despite gaining power that would have allowed for retribution, the

Prophet never sought revenge. The Imam cited several examples from Islamic scripture to

demonstrate his point:

 Qur’an 10:25 emphasizes that “the destination of Islam is always peace.” Qur’an 2:125
“know that Allah is forgiving and forbearing.”

 Qur’an 41:34 “If you deal with your oppressor (enemy) positively and return good for evil,
he will become your closest friend.”

Discussion Questions:

 The white supremacist who attacked Muslims in prayer was motivated by Islamophobia.
What is Islamophobia? What is white supremacy? Are they connected?

How to respond to hate? AN ISLAMIC RESPONSE 61

 Can you define “bystander”34 and “up stand er”35? Have you ever been a bystander to
4F3

generalizations about Muslims? Have you ever been an upstander? If yes, please share your

story. What does it mean to be an upstander in your religious tradition?

Identify and share three possible responses you will enact the next time that you hear

stereotypes or witness discrimination towards Muslims.

 The Imam suggested that one should never respond to hate with revenge, rather with
forgiveness that may even result in friendship (Qur’an 41:34). Discuss.

○ Are there dangers involved in befriending an oppressor?
○ What does it take to retain the humanity and dignity of one who acts with hate?
○ At what point does one walk away from one who acts with hate? Is there a point at

which one ceases to try and forge peace? Does your religious tradition help to

navigate these questions?
 What does forgiveness mean in your religious tradition?
 Describe a time when someone did something hurtful towards you. What was your

instinctual response? How did you actually respond? What would your ideal response be?

II. When hate is directed towards others

The Imam went on to discuss how to respond to attacks upon religious communities outside of one’s
own. He highlighted the importance of mutual responsibility as a means to being a proper Muslim.

 Qur’an 16:90 commands performing good deeds towards one’s “kin,” defined by Imam
Ulghar as friends and neighbors.

 The Hadith (traditions of quotes by the Prophet) states that “whoever does not show mercy
to others, mercy won’t cover him. Whoever does not forgive, Allah won’t forgive him.” or “the
merciful will be shown mercy by the most merciful. Be merciful to those on earth and the One
in the heavens will have mercy upon you.”

 Another prominent Hadith iterates: “none of you will believe until you love for your brother
what you love for yourself.”

The point emerges that not only are Muslims intrinsically bound to those around them, but the
statements formulate a prioritization of others over oneself to truly be a believer. It is a religious
imperative to be concerned about the state of being of one's neighbor. Cooperation with all peoples
towards the betterment of humanity. The Imam stated that: “The wellbeing of a Muslim is the
wellbeing of my fellow citizen.”

34 Someone who stands on the sidelines while witnessing others being hurt.
35 Someone who defends the vulnerable and intervenes when other are being hurt.

62 RESPONDING TO HATE MANUAL

A demonstrative story

The following photograph was taken the morning after
Easter Sunday in 2019 after a series of church and hotel
bombings which resulted in 207 casualties. The
bombings were carried out by a militant Islamist group.
Some claim that the attack was retributive and a

response to the March attack in Christchurch.

Credit: Chamila Karunarathne / Anadolu Agency / Getty

Imam Ulghar’s speech was an example of

the inverse of the assailants ’actions. He

spoke about the positive reciprocity that

the Qur’an and the life of Muhammad

instruct. While extremists respond to

violence with further violence, “true

believers” love and safeguard their

neighbor -- regardless of who they are

and how they treat you. Mercy only Imam Ismail Ulghar in public demonstration for those harmed in the
applied to those who are merciful to Sri Lanka bombings.
others. Therefore, upon performing Credit: photograph provided by Imam Ismail Ulghar

actions of solidarity, a Muslim becomes a

better member of their own community

and grows closer to God. The image to your right depicts Imam Ulghar attending a local vigil with his

daughter to honor the lives lost in the tragedy and co-organized with local community and

government officials.

Discussion Questions:

 How does your religious tradition define “kin”? How does your religious tradition define a
“neighbor”? What is the relationship between them?
Discuss the implication of those definitions for the ways you show up in solidarity with the
oppressed and vulnerable, as well as who warrants showing up for and why.

 What responses to violence toward your neighbor does your religious tradition describe?
Which stories, metaphors, and/or commentaries come to mind?

Describe three sources (within or beyond those listed) and the actions they point you to in
the face of religious hatred towards those outside of your own tradition.

How to respond to hate? AN ISLAMIC RESPONSE 63

 Imam Ulghar mentions the importance of political organizing and building relationships with
neighboring communities. List the religious communities in your city that you know. Are
you acquainted with members of leaders from those institutions?

Consider how many religious communities exist in your city. Which of them are you
acquainted with? What might be a way of forging relationships and reaching out to them?

Recall the last hate crime that occurred in your vicinity. How did you respond? Was there a
response by others? Did you use your relationships to act in solidarity?

III. Islam as a source of hatred

This photograph depicts the imbalance in media
coverage of various forms of terrorism. Imam Ulghar
explored the various responses that the Islamic tradition
provides when stereotypes are directed at one’s own
religious group. On the one hand, the Imam expressed
his disappointment in the media for their portrayal of
Islam as inherently linked with terrorism.

Simultaneously, he denounced the “Muslims who hijack
Islam” with violence describing multiple sources that Credit: Mona Chalabi
lead to his characterization of Islam as “a religion of peace.” The themes of compassion, mercy and
restraint towards one’s aggressors, forgiveness, care for the vulnerable, safeguarding one’s neighbor
define Islam. The Imam claims that violence has nothing to do with being a religious person.

Discussion Questions:

 Have you ever felt discriminated against on the basis of what you know to be a
misunderstanding of your identity - religious, sexual, cultural, or racial?

 Each religious tradition has scriptural passages that are invoked to justify violence. What are
those verses in your tradition? How ought we respond to members of our religious traditions
that cite such verses? Is it enough to counter such claims with quotes like the Imam proposed?
What are frameworks that address the multitude of sources in religious traditions - some that
advocate for peace and others for war?

 Do individuals bear responsibility for representing the groups they identify with? Describe
the challenges and advantages of answering yes or no to this question.

64 RESPONDING TO HATE MANUAL

SECTION 3: Mobilize, solidarity, compassion: highlights
from the Nugget Mosque for How to Respond to Hate

Preventative:

3. Develop relationships with interfaith and community leaders
4. Establish a group of local leaders who are activated to respond to religious hatred

*Link to full list of preventative actions

Post-Hate response:

3. Hold a vigil
4. Show up

*Link to full list of post-hate response

Practical Questions:

3. Who is charged with organizing supportive efforts?
Consider assigning two volunteers in the community

4. Is there a curriculum in your religious institution that addresses religious pluralism and
literacy?
*Link to full list of practical questions

The Nugget Mosque described the plight of Muslims in the west and how they have turned toward
their tradition to find God’s will in the example of the Prophet and his teachings. The proper Islamic
response to hatred is mercy and compassion which manifest in forgiveness that drives peace based
on the interdependent nature of human beings.

“And fear a day when you will return to God and every soul will be compensated for what it earned”
Qur’an 2:281

Read the full transcription of our program

ACTION ITEMS FOR COMMUNITY
PREPAREDNESS TO RESPOND TO HATE

How to Respond to Hate?

66 RESPONDING TO HATE MANUAL

ACTION ITEMS FOR COMMUNITY PREPAREDNESS TO

RESPOND TO HATE

Plan as if this could happen in your community, and take action on the following:

 Educate yourself about hate crimes and speech, and provide resources for your community to
be educated. Some ways to do this:
○ Hold a community conversation
○ Invite a speaker
○ Host a reading group to create a reading list and hold discussion
○ Read books on your own and share about them

 Know your local laws and policies
 Identify and keep a list of the national and local people and agencies to contact and the steps to

report acts of hate. These may include:
○ Local police
○ Your local Intelligence agency (they are affiliated with the Dept. of Homeland Security)
○ FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation)
○ ADL (Anti-Defamation League)
○ Secure Communities Network

 Create resources lists: a researched priority of hate crime victims is the desire to have support
resources as soon as the incident happens.
○ Where does one call for emotional, psychological, spiritual support?
○ Create a community contact list for supplies, food, home visits, deliveries, clothing, etc.

 Develop relationships with interfaith and community leaders
○ Join an interfaith group
○ Partner with Sharing Sacred Spaces to build your interreligious network

 Familiarize yourself with your own and other religious and spiritual stands against hate
○ Work through this manual on your own, with your religious or spiritual community, with
your academic community, or in an interfaith setting
○ Create events to hear about local religious and spiritual perspectives

 Establish a group of local leaders who are activated to respond to religious hatred
○ They set their emails or text for alerts
○ They ensure accurate information about the incident
○ They determine how and when to respond
○ They determine who will lead which effort (who will lead the vigil, who will organize the
letter-writing campaign, etc.)

 Create a communications plan (e.g., a phone tree):
○ To get word out about incidents quickly and accurately
○ To communicate the action plan

ACTION ITEMS FOR COMMUNITY PREPAREDNESS TO RESPOND TO HATE 67

PROACTIVE ACTIONS TO PREVENT HATE CRIMES

Being proactive is the best way to build a local community in which hate crimes are stifled. Even if a
hate crime is enacted, communities that have processes for knowing one another, appreciating
diversity, and ensuring inclusion, quell acts of violence quickly and effectively. Communities that do
not have these processes and values in place will be much less able to stop ensuing violence.

It’s essential therefore to find proactive ways to educate, build bridges across difference, and create
an inclusive community. The best measure against hate is to find proactive ways to create feelings of
belonging, feelings of being respected, and feelings of being listened to and taken seriously.

Here are some ideas to build a proactively inclusive and caring community where you live:

 Attend programming already taking place to build local relationships and learn about the
diversity in your neighborhood.
○ Widen the reach of these programs by making personal invitations to family, friends,
and congregational members to join you

 When attending events, arrange to have sign-up list for people interested in learning more
about hate crimes, hate crime prevention, and interreligious or intercultural work, about
skills for dialogue and bridging differences.

 Create a movement with public signage around town (foster coalitions and a positive
climate). Remember to include contact information for people interested.
○ What will your sign say? (Examples might be: “Coexist”, “Stand for love”, “Love one
another”)

 Consider marginalized groups. How can one best reach out to ensure they have adequate
access to networks, knowledge, and resources? Consider a community conversation to listen
and address isolation or inequities.

 Generate an initiative or a program for congregations to get to know one another. Consider
contacting Sharing Sacred Spaces to help.

68 RESPONDING TO HATE MANUAL

THE INTERFAITH PROTOCOL IN THE EVENT OF AN ACT
OF HATE

This interfaith protocol emerged after having heard and considered what each of the
religious communities shared about their own distinct responses to hate. Every situation
must be assessed on its own terms, however there were some common ways of being
(Attitudinal Response) as well as some common actions (Actionable Response) that we are
listing here. This is thus “the protocol”-- the ways to be and the things to do should an act of
hate occur in your community.

ATTITUDINAL RESPONSE:

Standing in support of a victimized community is best carried out with a certain way of being or
attitude. In light of our research and conversations with all our religious partners, these attitudes can
be described as follows.

Take on a stance of hospitality.

This means several things. First, be present. Practice being with the person or community affected
as opposed to problem-solving.

Do not try to erase their feelings, as this denies the trauma and may lead to buried emotions, anger,
or resentment.

Keep an open mind and heart. Be with their emotions and their speaking about the event. Be really
present and intentional with this.

Be warm and welcoming. Go out of your way to express support, which may (as appropriate) include
visiting their space. Be intentional, however, to help them feel safe (some may not wish outsiders by
or in their space immediately), but you might perhaps leave a card or token of love and support (see
our letter template below for reference). Do not leave sealed boxes, or anything that is unidentified
and could seem harmful. If they visit your community, be conscious to make them feel included.

Take on a stance of humility.

This means to practice “not knowing” and relating to the group on their own terms. Instead of
imposing what we think they need, ask the victimized group what you can do to be helpful. Learn,
listen, and decipher. Seek the guidance of that group; do not superimpose your own wishes.

Ideally, build connections with your neighbors that allows each religious congregation to know one
another and support one another during good times. This makes for a smoother pathway to support
one another during the bad times.

ACTION ITEMS FOR COMMUNITY PREPAREDNESS TO RESPOND TO HATE 69

Take on a stance of hope.

Be open to hearing where renewal can take place, and where in the face of destruction there can be
something unfathomable (example of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in NYC and
reconstruction). This does not mean to cover or try to replace feelings and emotions in the wake of
tragedy, not at all! But in listening, be open and be a stand for hope.

Take on a stance of solidarity.

Express unconditional support and commitment to stand with and stand up for your neighbors.
Stand for their dignity and their worth.

This includes correcting misinformation, stereotypes, and negative information you might hear about
the group. If you hear anything or witness an act based on misinformation or stereotypes, step in to
correct the information. Do not be a bystander.

Take on a stance of non-violence.

Aggression cannot ever be the way to address the injustice in the world. By finding peace in ourselves
and a connection to our highest self, we can connect to that in others and promote collective well-being.

ACTIONABLE RESPONSE:

Show up, organize, and show in act your solidarity with the affected group.
Here are some ways to do this:

Hold a vigil

Vigils are memorials for people that have been victims of hate crimes. They are often
held at the site of the crime or some place that was important to the victim. The
purpose of a vigil is to provide a space for people to grieve the loss of a friend, family
member, or community member.

Vigils often involve prayer and candle-lighting.

Virtual vigils are possible, too. Here are two resources:
To light a virtual candle: https://www.joincake.com/blog/virtual-candle
To host a virtual vigil:
https://www.interfaithimmigration.org/2020/09/29/how-to-host-a-
prayer-vigil/

70 RESPONDING TO HATE MANUAL

Public prayer

You may create circles of prayer/circles of peace surrounding the site of the attack.
While in the circle, you may recite a prayer for solidarity (an interfaith prayer is
included below), a naming of victims, and some information about the religious faith
who experienced the attack.

Show up

Appear at prayer circles, vigils, neighborhood meetings or public events. It was once
famously said that 80% of success is showing up. Just feeling solidarity will not move
the needle. You will need to act in solidarity. Showing up in your community is
necessary to building relationships and showing support.

When you show up for a religious community that is not your own, be sure to let
others know you are there as a member of another faith. This is important so that
neighbors see diverse support. It also promotes the space as a safe space for
additional religious communities to join.

Host a speak out, if and when appropriate

A speak out is an event that allows local communities to come together and speak
openly about their thoughts and feelings regarding a hate crime and general
treatment of religious people in the community. Speak-outs provide safe places to
express these emotions and allow for information-sharing between members of the
community. They can also serve as a way for the media to hear more from the
community, although you may choose to not have media present. The purpose of a
speak out is to allow people to openly share a variety of perspectives on what
happened and may be happening in order to raise public awareness of the issues.

Hold a rally, if and when appropriate

Interfaith groups may rally as a form of resistance and solidarity, calling attention to
the cause.

A well-organized, energetic public rally can make it clear to the media, local officials,
and the general public that a large number of people are actively concerned about
hate crimes and are demanding change. Both the size and the content of a rally are
important. Rallies can generate a good deal of excitement about fighting for social
and political change. The purpose of a rally is to send a targeted message to the public
by drawing many people and media attention.

ACTION ITEMS FOR COMMUNITY PREPAREDNESS TO RESPOND TO HATE 71

Create safe spaces.

Carve out space for the affected group to tell their own personal journey and their experience
- within their own community, but also between communities, and perhaps inside your own
local community or congregation.

Listening to their needs and experience is key. See attitudinal response above.

If the space of another has been damaged or threatened, offer your space to them.

If their own space is still usable, offer to help with security. (Do you have contacts in
law enforcement? Your own security guard you might lend to them?) Work out
creative options.

Create your local neighborhood as a safe space. Be in solidarity not just within the prayer
circle, but at the supermarket. Create safety for affected groups wherever you go.

Initiate the calling tree.

Let your neighbor know that they are not alone by organizing within the community for their
sake. The calling tree is a way to spread accurate information and to communicate an action
plan in response.

See “Action Items for Community Preparedness in case of a Hate Crime” above. The calling
tree is something you can pre-organize not just as an organized response to a hate crime, but
to other essential community issues.

Hold a letter writing campaign.

Set aside a time – one hour – school-wide or/and religious congregation-wide to write cards
or letters of support to the affected community.

See the letter template below as guidance.

You may also write to political representatives as a call for public support for change.

*Refer back to the Action Items for Community Preparedness section above to ensure you have
designated community leaders to fill organizing roles for quick response in the case of a hate crime.
These leaders need to be designated (and a calling tree set up) in advance. If you need assistance with
the protocol, please reach out to Sharing Sacred Spaces at (203) 609-3914 or
[email protected].

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RESOURCES:

INTERFAITH PRAYER IN RESPONSE TO HATE

Perceiving world sound reveals world suffering.
Perceiving world suffering reveals the compassionate heart.
We are thankful for all the rich and abundant blessings that are bestowed on us; We pray
for religious freedom throughout the world;
We pray for those who practice their faith under conditions of fear, oppression, and
persecution; We pray for the sick and the suffering, and for the less fortunate of this world;
We pray for peace and mutual understanding;
We pray for those who have experienced violence, racism, and acts of hate; We ask for
comfort, guidance and strength in times of trial, tribulation, unrest, and distress; We ask
for protection from all influence and temptation of evil;
We pray for those who hate out of ignorance, that they may have a change of heart, to a
spirit of love and compassion;
Perceiving world sound reveals world suffering.

ACTION ITEMS FOR COMMUNITY PREPAREDNESS TO RESPOND TO HATE 73

LETTER TEMPLATES/EXAMPLES

EXAMPLE 1:

TO THE JEWISH COMMUNITY
Jewish Community Center (JCC) of Greater New Haven

BACKGROUND: In July of 2020 a spray painted swastika was discovered on one of

the doors at JCC of Greater New Haven.

For more details about this hate crime, click here.

Dear Mr. Sklarz,

We hope that you are safe and well in this very challenging time. We are writing to you in response to
learning that the JCC was vandalized last night in an act of hate. This tragedy saddens us a great deal.
We know the JCC, it’s mission of charity, loving-kindness, and tikkun olam, and the great number of
people it serves. It is a beloved community center. We wanted to express to you our deepest sympathy
and support.

To let you know who we are, we are an interreligious group in New Haven, CT that formed through the
work of an organization called Sharing Sacred Spaces, Inc. Sharing Sacred Spaces operates across the
continent building interreligious communities of trust and friendship through the unique vehicles of
sacred space and architecture, and radical hospitality. One year ago, our New Haven group consisting
of 8 different religious congregations signed a pledge to act in solidarity with one another to offer
compassion and support to those who have experienced bias and hate because of their religion.

We write to you in this spirit. Though the JCC is a community center, and not technically a place of
worship, we nonetheless wanted to write so that you know that we, representing Zen Buddhism,
Hinduism, Islam, Greek Orthodox Christianity, Protestant Christianity—the United Church of Christ and
the Society of Friends, Catholicism, and your own Judaism uphold the worth and dignity of who you
are. You belong, and we will stand for this and nothing less.

We collectively share the same humanitarian goals and desire to leave the world a better place than we
found it. If you would like to be in touch with us for any reason, please do not hesitate.

Be assured of our continued solidarity with you. Peace and good health be with you and all those you
serve.

Respectfully,

74 RESPONDING TO HATE MANUAL

EXAMPLE 2:

TO THE CATHOLIC COMMUNITY
Catholic community of San Gabriel, CA.

BACKGROUND: In July of 2020 the 230 year old roof of the Mission San Gabriel
Arcángel fell in the wake of a vicious arson.

For more details about this hate crime, click here.

Dear Father Molyneux,

Peace be with you in this very challenging time. We are writing to you in response to learning that a fire
has damaged your church. Our understanding is that the cause of the fire is, as of yet, not known, but we
wanted to express our sympathy concerning this tragedy, and pray that it was indeed not inspired by an
act of hate, though we understand this could be one possibility. In reading about your church, we can
tell it was a place beloved by its members and of great historical significance for the area. We wanted
to express to you our deepest sympathy.

To let you know who we are, we are an interreligious group in New Haven, CT that formed through the
work of an organization called Sharing Sacred Spaces, Inc. Sharing Sacred Spaces operates across the
continent building interreligious communities of trust and friendship through the unique vehicles of
sacred space and architecture, and radical hospitality. One year ago, our New Haven group consisting
of 8 different religious congregations signed a pledge to act in solidarity with one another to offer
compassion and support to those who have experienced bias and hate because of their religion.

We write to you in this spirit, so that you know that we, representing Zen Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism,
Islam, Greek Orthodox Christianity, Protestant Christianity—the United Church of Christ and the Society
of Friends, and your own Catholicism, uphold the worth and dignity of your tradition and your church.

Though we are miles apart, we collectively share the same humanitarian goals and desire to leave the
world a better place than we found it. If you would like to be in touch with us for any reason, please do
not hesitate.

Be assured of our continued prayers for you and your community. Peace and good health be with you
and all those you serve.

Respectfully,

ACTION ITEMS FOR COMMUNITY PREPAREDNESS TO RESPOND TO HATE 75

FOR FURTHER READING:

You need to get me this.