In fact, the challenge for all of us is to try and help today's youth chart a safe course through the pitfalls of modern life. In the context of hate crime, this means educating them about racism and making them aware of the danger that hate groups pose, both for themselves and to society. Statistics from a report prepared in 1994, for the Department of the Solicitor General, showed that the average age of the membership of hate groups has dropped from over 65 years old to 16 and 17 years of age. It is also estimated that between 60 and 70 per cent of hate crime offenders are under the age of 25. These facts are very disturbing.
Education is a vital tool in dealing with hate crime and racism.
Some communities have made great strides in educating youth about racism and hate crime. In Edmonton, for instance, police officers deliver anti-racism and conflict resolution workshops to high school students. In Toronto, city police staff provide an educational outreach program within the schools and communities. I am confident that during the next few days, you will come up with other effective strategies to reach our young people before we lose them to groups involved in hate propaganda. We all have an important role to play, but the involvement of the police community is vital.