Some hate symbols are not as obvious as the swastika. Hate symbols can be found scrawled on the outside walls of synagogues, churches and schools; tattooed on the bodies of white supremacists; or displayed on jewelry and clothing. Extremists use these symbols because it gives them a sense of power and belonging, as well as a quick way of identifying others who share their beliefs.

The Anti-Defamation League’s Hate Symbols database is helpful in interpreting new or seemingly new signs that are anti-Semitic or tied to organizations with anti-Semitic views and missions.

This database provides an overview of many of the symbols most frequently used by a variety of white supremacist groups and movements, as well as some other types of hate groups. Please note that symbols depicted in the database must be evaluated in the context in which they appear. Few symbols ever represent just one idea or are used exclusively by one group. Some symbols in this database may be significant to people who are not extreme or racist

To report a hate incident at your home or in a business, contact local law enforcement immediately.

 To report a hate incident on a school campus, contact a campus police liaison officer as well as school administrators. If the incident occurs in a classroom, notify the teacher immediately.

Incidents of online hate speech and harassment have also proliferated, whether through blogs, websites or social media. The Anti-Defamation League has prepared a Cyber-Safety Action Guide, through which you can access online companies’ hate-speech policies and report violations.

The more these incidents are tracked, the more resources can be put forth to stop them. Two organizations, the Anti-Defamation League and the Southern Poverty Law Center, are tracking hate incidents. If you are inclined, please submit your incident to them.