What is the difference between a hate crime and a hate speech offense?

In the state of Washington, the law distinguishes between a hate crime and a hate speech offense. A hate crime is a criminal act that is motivated by bias or prejudice against the victim’s race, color, religion, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, or disability status. It is a crime that targets an individual because of their identity, and can result in serious criminal penalties. A hate speech offense, on the other hand, is defined as any public act or statement that is threatening, intimidating, or degrading on the basis of race, color, religion, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, or disability status. This type of offense does not necessarily involve physical violence, but the intent to create an environment of hostility or intimidation is punishable by law. The main difference between a hate crime and a hate speech offense is that the former is a criminal act and the latter is a speech-related offense. Hate crimes involve a physical act of violence, while hate speech offenses involve only words, even if those words may be offensive. Both are punishable by law in Washington, however, and the penalties for any hate-related acts are severe.

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What is the difference between a hate crime and a hate speech offense?

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