Discussing the Deadly, Racist Shooting in Jacksonville
Ask Students: What anniversary was being marked when the shooting took place? How have hate crimes increased in recent years?
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. Ali Rogin reports.
- See this story for words from the mayor of Jacksonville on the shooting and white supremacist violence in the community.
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.
Dicussion Questions
- When and Where did the shooting take place?
- Who was killed in the shooting?
- What anniversary 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?
Media Literacy: 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?
Understanding Hate Crimes
“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?
Republished with permission from PBS NewsHour Classroom.
PBS NewsHour Classroom helps teachers and students identify the who, what, where and why-it-matters of the major national and international news stories. The site combines the best of NewsHour's reliable, trustworthy news program with lesson plans developed specifically for... See More
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