UMW Program Suggestion
Hate and Hope on the Internet

by Kelly C. Martini

The Internet has joined TV and radio in electronic media’s violent assault on society. But that is only part of the story. This program introduces the Internet as a tool United Methodist Women can use to combat violence that is racism.

This program provides multiple challenges and opportunities:

• For those who are computer illiterate, the challenge is to embrace the technology. The opportunity is to invite someone familiar with computers--possibly a young woman--to lead you.
• Racism is violent, and the Internet brings you that violence in words and images. The opportunity to learn the Internet also offers a wealth of words and images to combat racism.

For Internet access, check with unit members, you church office, your local library or a school.

Scripture: Psalm 106:6

"We have sinned as our ancestors did; we have been wicked and evil."

Computer search for images of racism:

Enter into the computer’s search engine the following words: Hate, Extremism, Ku Klux Klan, or Aryan. Beware: Some of the pages you will encounter are filled with hate. Also, check out Hate Watch (http://www.hatewatch.org).

As you explore the pages of these groups, define "hate group." What characteristics do "hate groups" possess. Discuss the following questions, writing your ideas on newsprint:

• What would attract people to these web pages?
• What language is hateful?
• How do pages like these promote violence?
• What can you do to counteract these negative messages?

Now, explore suggestions from When Hate Groups Come to Town: A Handbook of Effective Community Responses published by the Center for Democratic Renewal.

Computer search for positive messages:

Look at the United Methodist General Board of Global Ministries’ home page: http://gbgm-umc.org . Then, view United Methodist Women’s web page: http://gbgm-umc.org/UMW/ . If time allows, search on United Methodist, Christian, Justice, or your favorite book of the Bible.

As you look at these pages, write on newsprint what makes them positive. Discuss the following questions:

• What would attract people to these web pages?
• What language makes them positive, hopeful, or loving?
• How do pages like these promote living as a Christian?
• What messages would you want to put on a web page?

As you look at your newsprints from both the hate pages and the positive pages, compare tactics of groups using the Internet. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages to using the Internet to convey your message.

Scripture: Read Psalm 106:6 again.

Prayer: Dear God, we have seen the power of technology to both convey hate and to convey your message of love and justice. Help us work for a world where your message is loud and clear and ever present. Help us embrace the new even as we tell your old, old story. Make us tireless workers in combatting the hate and violence that is racism. In the name of your son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

* Taken from Response magazine (May 1997) entitled "Christians Living in the Midst of a Violent Society."

For more articles relating to Christians Living in the Midst of a Violent Society:

• Dance of Peace, written by a senior from Baltimore, MD
• A Shoulder, Time and Prayers, written by a youth from Houston, TX
• The Sweetest Name, written by a ninth grader from Page, Arizona

Kelly C. Martini is executive secretary for communications of the Women's Division, General Board of Global Ministries, United Methodist Church.

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