How Schools Can Help Build Resilience to Hate and Radicalization

What does it take for a young person to resist hate—and how can schools reinforce the skills and conditions that make that resilience possible?

Rising misogyny, misinformation, and classroom conflict—combined with increasing mental health challenges and social isolation—are leaving many schools across Canada searching for effective ways to better understand and respond to the needs of young people. When youth feel unheard or invisible, they are more likely to seek validation online, where they may become vulnerable to harmful narratives and pathways to radicalization. Hate groups often exploit these vulnerabilities, targeting emotional voids linked to isolation, grievance, and a sense of hopelessness. Educators are asking not only what to address, but when and how—often without clear guidance or resources. This panel brings together practitioners from the Polarization, Extremism, Research, and Innovation Lab (PERIL), CIVIX, and Next Gen Men to explore how education can build resilience to hate and reduce pathways to radicalization, while strengthening belonging and a sense of hope among youth. Moving beyond reactive approaches, the discussion will focus on prevention—equipping young people with the skills and supports they need to resist the appeal of harmful ideologies before they take hold. Drawing on complementary approaches, panelists will share evidence-informed strategies rooted in:

• Digital literacy and pre-bunking, helping youth recognize and resist manipulative content, conspiracy narratives, and online recruitment tactics
• Dialogue-based civic learning, creating structured, non-partisan spaces where students can engage with diverse perspectives and navigate conflict constructively
• Building belonging and social connection, particularly by addressing isolation among young men and fostering healthy identities and peer relationships

The conversation will explore how these approaches work together to address both the symptoms and the underlying drivers of radicalization. Panelists will highlight how critical thinking, media literacy, inclusive dialogue, and positive social connections can serve as protective factors. Attendees will leave with practical examples and adaptable strategies to support respectful, safe, and resilient school communities.

Presented in partnership with the Canada Centre for Community Engagement and Prevention of Violence

Register via Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/O0CSGKcuTTSY-sxUxEsB2Q