This is a study of recent acts of violence perpetrated against racial, ethnic, and religious minorities in the United States, based upon information provided by State civil rights advisory committees and data from publications, reports, and the news media. At the outset, it is noted that the Ku Klux Klan, neo-Nazi, and other extremist groups which openly advocate racist and discriminatory beliefs still exist despite efforts to eradicate them. The report then analyzes probable causes and contributing circumstances (especially economic factors) in bigotry-bred violence and identifies responses to this problem, including education and public awareness, improved police intervention, legislative initiatives, and fair media coverage. In conclusion, five suggestions are made as to the responsibilities of Federal and State authorities, the criminal justice system, parents, educators, religious leaders, the Department of Justice, and the nation's President to combat racial and religious bigotry. (Author/WAM)