Life After Hate

Kristina David has an excellent article in the San Diego Union-Tribune which identifies both the factors that lead many to join hate groups, and the factors that can help them turn away from hate [1].

Not surprisingly, trauma, rejection, and isolation are among the factors favoring radicalization.  Hate groups like the Ku Klux Klan can provide participants with a real, if distorted, sense of identity and community, as well as a target for their negative emotions.

Moral arguments may be less effective in countering this appeal than dissatisfaction with the direction a particular group is taking, or infighting among its members.  Parenthood may actually cause members to reassess their participation.

Disengagement from the group is an essential step.  Christian Picciolini, a former skinhead and the founder of Life After Hate, emphasizes forgiveness, as well.

“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Rom. 8: 28).

Christians know that God can use suffering, trials, tragedy, and heartache for His glory and their good.  In a world filled with hate, Christ offers hope and redemption.

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[1]  San Diego Union-Tribune, “Cure for hate:  Former skinheads recall what turned them around” by Kristina David, 5/12/19, https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/public-safety/story/2019-05-11/cure-for-hate-former-skinheads.

READERS CAN FIND MY VIEWS ON ABUSE AND ABUSE-RELATED ISSUES AT ANNA WALDHERR A Voice Reclaimed, Surviving Child Abuse https://avoicereclaimed.com