"Fucking foreigners": Powerlessness, marginalization and other harms of hate crimes

Abstract

Hate crimes have become more apparent alongside greater diversity and a more visible struggle for minority rights. Victims of hate crime tend to differ from the majority based on factors such as ethnic origin, skin color, religion, and sexual orientation. Thus, hate crimes can be seen as a product of a more diverse society. Victims of hate crime are generally in a more precarious position than perpetrators, supporting the argument that hate crimes inflict more harm than similar offenses lacking prejudicial intent. The research question this article seeks to answer centers on understanding the harm experienced by victims of hate crimes and how it shapes their sense of belonging to society. Little is known about hate crimes in Iceland and corresponding harm. This article is based on a qualitative study conducted in Iceland. Twenty-five individuals with a minority background who had experienced a hate crime were interviewed. The key findings underscore the detrimental effects of hate crimes, which manifest in feelings of vulnerability, fear, and mistrust. These experiences resulted in behavioral changes and, in the most extreme cases, complete marginalization. Moreover, several participants reported a sense of not belonging to society, which further compromises their ability to cope with the consequences of hate crimes.