THE EFFECTS OF PROTESTS, VIOLENT HATE CRIMES, AND HATE GROUPS ON SUPPORT FOR AN IDENTITY GROUP*

This study investigates the impact of exposure to protest and violent hate crimes on changes in support for identity groups. Social identity theories have explained how mechanisms of social comparison encourage outgroup hostilities, leading to hate crimes against targeted identity groups. Social movement theories have suggested how mobilization by identity movements for expanded rights often initiates reciprocal action against them by opponents. These theories suggest hypotheses that exposure to protests, hate crimes, and hate groups increases ingroup solidarity, raising support for the focal identity group. Analyzing panel data from the American National Election Surveys conducted in 2016 and 2020, this research examines shifts in attitudes toward four distinct identity groups: Black, Lesbian-Gay-Bisexual, Transgender, and Jewish individuals. Contrary to expectations, peaceful protests by identity groups did not affect their levels of support. The findings show that hate crimes or hate group activity increased support for Black, Lesbian-Gay-Bisexual, and Transgender individuals.