SUMMARY
A fatal shooting of three Black people by a white gunman in Jacksonville, Florida, is a brutal reminder that race-based hate is still present in America. Authorities say the shooter left writings detailing his racist ideology, and the FBI is investigating the rampage as a hate crime.
Teachers’ note: This story does contain some disturbing images. For guidance on how to talk with students about mass shootings, you may want to read SAMHSA’s “Tips for Talking With and Helping Children and Youth Cope After a Disaster or Traumatic Event: A Guide for Parents, Caregivers, and Teachers.”
For a transcript of this story, click here.
Update: See this story for words from the mayor of Jacksonville on the shooting and white supremacist violence in the community.
News wrap alternative: Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.
FIVE FACTS
- When and Where did the shooting take place?
- Who was killed in the shooting?
- What anniversary is was being marked when the shooting took place?
- Why is the FBI investigating the shooting as a hate crime?
- How have hate crimes increased in recent years?
FOCUS QUESTIONS
How do you think state governments like Florida’s should address a rise in hate crimes? What about the federal government?
News analysis: How much information do you think the media should provide about the shooter and his manifesto? What are some reasons for sharing it or avoiding releasing the manifesto?
Alternative: See, Think, Wonder: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What story would you want to find out more about? Where would you go to learn more?
FOR MORE
What students can do: “Hate crimes” are crimes “motivated by bias against race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or disability” according to federal law.
Research recent stories about hate crimes in the United States and discuss why they may be on the rise. You can start with this index of hate crimes stories from the NewsHour. You might use some of the following questions as a guide:
- Who are some of the victims described in these stories? What do they have in common?
- What other characteristics do the incidents in these stories share?
- What are some of the ways state and federal governments have tried to respond to a rise in hate crimes?
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