Due to a rise in hate crimes, Homeland Security has issued a domestic terrorism warning throughout the whole U.S warning almost everyone to be alert. 

In the last year, hate crimes in major cities have risen almost 44%. These crimes are aimed at groups such as the LGBTQ+, minorities, people with different religion/beliefs, etc. According to VOA News, if an increase continues, it could mark the fourth consecutive year for a rise in hate crimes. 

Some of these crimes have included shootings, physical assaults, burnings, threats, etc. The people who are experiencing these crimes do not feel safe, and have every right not to. Knowing the crimes that are being committed makes people wonder why exactly it’s happening, and although being prejudiced or biased against someone isn’t necessarily an excuse, it is used as a reasoning for a lot of people’s actions.

Some of the causes for the spike in crimes include the death of George Floyd in 2020, which aims hate towards the black community, and COVID-19 aims hate towards the Asian community. However, these are only two examples of the immense amounts of hate crimes occurring. No matter the reason though, these crimes can cause lots of harm for the people enduring them.

The people victimized by these attacks are being drained physically and mentally. The effects an attack has on mental health are drastic and should be taken very seriously. According to the APA, “people victimized by these violent crimes are more likely to experience more psychological distress than victims of any other crime.”

“Although it’s concerning, it’s not that surprising,” an anonymous Niles North student said. “Even if you personally haven’t experienced a hate crime, just walking in the hallway you can guarantee to hear some type of derogatory language aimed at someone. It makes sense though, the increase, especially with the internet and how easy it is to spread hate.”