How to combat hate speech?
2 min read
What exactly is ‘Hate Speech?’
Due to its complexity and capacity to embrace a variety of events and contexts, there is currently no single legal definition of the phrase ‘Hate Speech.’
It is broadly defined as any type of communication aimed at a person or a group based on their “protected characteristics” in speech, writing, or even behaviour. Race, ethnicity, gender identity, nationality, descent, major disease, and disability are all examples of this.
To put it another way, it’s a kind of discrimination just like any other – but it’s done using words. In general, there are five criteria:
i) Form: any act that constitutes an incitement to discrimination, hostility, or violence, such as promoting, distributing, or participating in such organisations or activities;
ii) Promoter: any individual or group acting in an official capacity or in any ordinary period or an unofficial group;
iii) Content: any act that constitutes an incitement to discrimination, hostility, or violence, such as promoting, distributing, or participating in such organisations or activities;
iv) Context: the aim to express oneself to the fullest extent possible. For example, racial hatred or pro-war agitation;
v) Potential impact: for example, disruption and crime, a challenge to authority, or a breach of reputation or rights.
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It’s not easy to decipher hate speech. Before we react poorly to criticism directed at ourselves, our race, or religion, or before we react negatively to others, we should remember these Quranic verses, which provide clear guidance on how to behave and respond to criticism. What are the etiquettes for dealing with conflicts while retaining diversity in discussion, using these verses as a guide?
وَلْتَكُن مِّنكُمْ أُمَّةٌ يَدْعُونَ إِلَى ٱلْخَيْرِ وَيَأْمُرُونَ بِٱلْمَعْرُوفِ وَيَنْهَوْنَ عَنِ ٱلْمُنكَرِ ۚ وَأُو۟لَـٰٓئِكَ هُمُ ٱلْمُفْلِحُونَ
“and let there be a group among you who call others to goodness, encourage what is good and forbid what is evil – it is they who will be successful.”
(Surah Al-’Imran, 3:104)
It’s critical to approach the topic in a positive and truthful way. People are frequently zealous in expressing their opinions on matters such as religion, racism, extremism, and politics. While we all have our own viewpoints on these matters, it is a good idea to get consent or permission before discussing or inquiring about them. Simply mentioning that you are aware that the topic is difficult and asking whether they would prefer to avoid it demonstrates that you are making a potentially volatile region safe for them and that you are sympathetic to their viewpoint.
While we are driven to maintain the truth or dispel misconceptions, the Quran cautions us against using unsuitable language and ridiculing others.
قُلْ يَـٰٓأَهْلَ ٱلْكِتَـٰبِ تَعَالَوْا۟ إِلَىٰ كَلِمَةٍ سَوَآءٍۭ بَيْنَنَا وَبَيْنَكُمْ
“Say, (O Prophet), “O People of the Book! Let us come to common terms”
(Surah Al-’Imran, 3:64)
Trying to win the argument causes us to subconsciously dismiss the other party’s thoughts and opinions, resulting in tension. This raises the chances of a heated debate, nasty remarks, and hate speech.
In-shaa-Allah, guided by the Quran, we as Muslims will be able to avoid partaking in any type of hate speech while also cultivating deeper understanding and harmony as we co-exist with people of various races and religions.
