This is our April 2024 Newsletter that went out to our email subscribers. Sign up to receive updates here.
Dear Friend of Life After Hate
Last year, Life After Hate turned a new chapter, declaring that its clients always come first. Adopting this “compassion with accountability” mantra is the only way we can effectively help individuals disengage from violent extremist groups and online hate spaces. It is how we can build a safer community for all. And it is our obligation as the nation’s leader in the violence intervention space.
Earlier this spring, we reiterated this commitment as we reflected on the power of our core values. Compassion, integrity, accountability, empathy, and redemption form the foundation of Life After Hate. These values have been central to our work for years now, and have been the focus of recent activities.
Just last week, I met with licensed counselors to discuss the importance of mental health services in violence prevention. I spoke on multiple college campuses on the topics of social justice, intolerance, and the rise of antisemitism and Islamophobia and how to combat such hate. I collaborated with members of law enforcement and the criminal justice communities about how best to address violent hate crimes. Each of these audiences is essential to amplifying our work and impact in our community and with our clients and partners.
The work at Life After Hate is getting more complex and more time-consuming. It is also essential to the safety and success of our representative democracy. Speaking at an HBCU this month, I recounted Martin Luther King Jr.’s words, “Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.” That love is rooted in compassion with accountability. And it is a sentiment core to our mission.
Thank you for your ongoing support, encouragement, and trust.
– Pat Riccards
LAH Discusses the “Cost of Extremism”
Samantha, the editor of The Daily Former, recently joined the hosts of the popular Red, Wine, & Blue podcast to discuss the true costs of extremism.
Listen here.
LAH’s Pat Riccards recently spoke with The War Horse about recent research on U.S. military personnel and their engagement with violent extremism groups.
Pat Riccards on “Dan and Dave” Podcast
Pat Riccards joined with Dan and Dave to discuss a range of issues regarding disengaging from hate groups, criminal justice, and forgiveness.
Listen here.
LAH Launches “Accountability Minute”
“Accountability Minutes” are a short-form video series to keep you updated on extremism and our work and impact. Catch the latest insights, news, and transparent perspectives on our Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Watch here.
