When someone disapproves of individuals or groups solely because of their religion, the person is said to be prejudiced or bigoted. Although not everyone acts on such feelings, bigotry is at the root of religious discrimination. Choosing not to live in the same neighborhood as Jewish families, refusing to rent an apartment or sell a home to Muslims, or telling a young man of the Sikhism religion that he cannot wear his turban in school or at work, are just a few examples of religious discrimination. In the worst possible situations bigotry leads to criminal activity, which is known as a religious hate crime. Hate crimes are serious, often deadly, crimes such as arson (fire-setting), other types of property damage or destruction, assault, rape, and/or murder. What makes them hate crimes is that they are committed because of religious hatred.

The ugliness of bigotry -- How serious a problem is religious discrimination? -- Religious hate crimes -- Religious discrimination in the workplace -- How people are hurt by religious discrimination -- When religious beliefs clash with civil rights.