What are the laws regarding online hate speech?
In Minnesota, the laws regarding online hate speech focus on preventing discrimination and protecting people from hate-motivated speech or conduct. Under Minnesota law, it is illegal to make threats of violence on the internet, to engage in cyber-bullying, or to post pictures or videos that are discriminatory or contain hate-speech. Additionally, Minnesota State law prohibits discrimination based on race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, public assistance status, age, or sexual orientation, in public places, housing, and employment. Minnesota also has hate-speech laws that target specific kinds of online expression. For example, it is illegal for people to use the internet to make statements or post photos or videos that are racist or prejudicial and may create an atmosphere of "hate, intolerance, or discrimination." Additionally, it is illegal to post materials online that may incite violence or promote hatred of particular groups, such as those based on race, color, religion, sex, marital status, disability, public assistance status, age, or sexual orientation. Though it may be difficult to police and prosecute hate-speech online, it is important to remember that both state and federal laws exist to protect people from discriminatory and hateful speech. Anyone who believes that they have been the target of online hate speech should report it to the appropriate law enforcement or state agency.
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