Hate/bias incidents, when they occur, impact a larger segment of the community than the specific victims(s) targeted. The author discusses how to recognize such an incident, how to respond to it, and how to work together with communities and schools to create an environment where these incidents are less likely to occur. When they do occur, the informed community will be better prepared to respond effectively, to support the victim, and to reassure others who may feel they could be targeted as victims. Since 1964, the Community Relations Service has worked with community groups, schools, police and other entities to assist communities in addressing racial conflict issues by offering free of charge technical assistance, training and models to assist in forming ongoing mechanisms in communities wanting to counter hate incidents and racial polarization.