There are 537 active hate groups and 264 Internet hate sites (as of 1998) in the U.S. These figures represent 12% and 36% respective increases from the previous year.

In an effort to counter what appeared to be an increase of hate/bias crimes in the Knoxville region, the Hate Crimes Working Group (HCWG) was formed in 1996. The group's membership is comprised of local and federal law enforcement agencies along with community agencies and organizations. In the past years, the group has sponsored or co-sponsored several community events centering on hate crimes education and awareness.

The HCWG provides training sessions for law enforcement agencies and community groups. Tennessee has penalty enhancements for hate crimes. The group is working to strengthen the state’s hate crime statues and to increase the penalty enhancements for people convicted of hate crimes.

Who are members of the Hate Crime Working Group?

·        Arab-American Club of Knoxville

·        Knoxville Bridge Builders, Child & Family Tennessee

·        Citizens for Police Review

·        Federal Bureau of Investigation, Knoxville Division

·        Gay and Lesbian Community

·        Knox County Sheriffs Department

·        Knox County District Attorney’s Office

·        Knox County School System

·        Knoxville Area Urban League

·        Knoxville City Government

·        Knoxville Jewish Alliance

·        Knoxville Legal Aid Society

·        Knoxville Police Department (KPD)

·        Metropolitan Community Church

·        National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)

·        Knox Area Coalition for Community and Justice

·        Race Relations Center of East Tennessee

·        University of Tennessee Police Department

·        U.S. Probation Office

·        United States Attorney's Office

Home | Contact us | FAQ | Helpful resources | Traveling Trunk | Who we are