The International Day for Countering Hate Speech, June 18, reminds us that this is a human issue. Creating safe and inclusive spaces, from community meetings to online chat groups, means making sure the voices that are usually ignored are heard and included.

In common language, “hate speech” refers to offensive discourse targeting a group or an individual based on inherent characteristics (such as race, religion or gender) and that may threaten social peace.

Today we are called to stop and have deep introspection about ourselves. Are our actions in any way offensive, inflaming tensions? As a human right defender, let’s be more accommodative, respectful, and employ diplomatic language in our discourse in order to build positive energy to enhance partnerships and Collaboration among ourselves individually and collectively.

Together we can move mountains and mitigate gender based violence in our community.

Happy and healthy deliberations on the International Hate Speech Day