Building a national movement against hate speech that triggers Antisemitism, homophobia, transphobia, xenophobia, and other forms of intolerance

ended

Hate speech is a common and consistent phenomenon in the Bulgarian political and media landscape, affecting primarily LGBTI, ethnic and religious minorities. Modern forms of antisemitism are sneaking into the populist discourse of radical nationalists. The project aims to enhance collaboration among communities, affected by hate speech, and create a national movement of allies that prevents and combats Antisemitism, homophobia, transphobia, xenophobia and other forms of intolerance. Particular focus is placed on engaging young people as multipliers. The consortium brings together LGBTI-rights activists, Association of Bulgarian Jews, and Association of journalists, committed to creating an environment that prevents hate speech. Activities: -Exploring the human face of hate: A) In-depth interviews with individuals, affected by hate speech and making videos of 5 life stories (upon consent); B) Interviewing users of hate speech, who are not members of radical groups, showing the deeply rooted fear of the unknown as a trigger; - Awareness campaign with target groups youth and movable middle: Short film “The face of hate” disseminated via YouTube and mainstream media channels (600K+ views); Social media campaign (500K+ views); 5 open forums (film projection + discussion) in 5 major cities (200+p.). - Targeted work with journalists to build counter-narratives, which stop the dissemination of hate speech: workshops for journalists (50 p. in total), resulting in a follow-up traditional media campaign. - Building resilience in affected communities and strengthening collaboration among them: 5 workshops for young people (LGBTI, Jews, and other local minorities) (50+ trained young leaders in 5 cities). - Final project forum: 60+ allies, follow-up plan for the no-hate movement. Results and impacts: - Visible counter-narrative, strengthened dialogue among affected communities, national movement against hate.