How growing hate affects kids and what we can do about it

Back in the day, kids went to school and played without worrying too much about hateful speech or violence. Things weren’t perfect—segregation was real in many parts of the country, and people didn’t always treat each other fairly. But there was a sense of basic respect, even when people disagreed. Today, that respect seems to be disappearing. News headlines constantly blast us with stories of hate crimes—synagogues, churches, and mosques have all been targets. Kids see this and might start to think that hate is normal, or worse, that violence is the only way to deal with differences. Religious groups aren’t the only ones on edge. Public figures today often use extreme language, calling opponents "lunatics" or worse. High-ranking officials spread baseless claims that spark outrage. It’s not just politics—it’s personal. When leaders trash-talk each other without consequences, kids notice. They start believing that disagreement equals hatred, and hatred justifies cruelty. After all, if adults act like enemies, why wouldn’t kids?It didn’t used to be this way. Political rivals used to shake hands and accept election results. Today, extremes get the loudest microphones, and respect gets drowned out. When kids grow up surrounded by this kind of talk, they might think treating others badly is okay. They might even feel scared to speak their minds in fear of backlash. So what’s the solution? Real change starts at home and in schools. Kids need to see adults choosing respect over insults. Communities need to call out hate when it happens—not just in private, but in public too. Because if we don’t, the next generation will grow up thinking hate is the default, not the exception.