At a time of rising polarization and extremism, Parents for Peace joined former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger at USC for a crucial discussion on breaking the cycle of hate. As reported by the Daily Trojan, the event, “Terminating Hate: Breaking the Cycle of Extremism,” brought together policymakers, religious leaders, and experts to discuss solutions to radicalization and antisemitism.
Using Influence for Good
Schwarzenegger, known for his viral videos denouncing extremism, spoke about the responsibility of those with influence to take a stand against hate. Reflecting on his own family history—his father was a Nazi soldier—he emphasized the dangers of radicalization and the importance of direct intervention in reaching those at risk.
“I always feel that when you’re a celebrity, you have the responsibility to use your platform, your power of influence … and use it for some good,” Schwarzenegger said.
Parents for Peace: Meeting Hate with Compassion
One of the key discussions featured Myrieme Churchill, Executive Director of Parents for Peace, and Chuck Leek, a former neo-Nazi who now helps others disengage from extremism. Moderated by Erroll Southers, a national security expert at USC, the panel focused on effective strategies for helping individuals leave hate groups behind.
Churchill shared her own experiences growing up in a culturally diverse household and being the target of antisemitism despite not being Jewish. Her work with Parents for Peace is rooted in the belief that radicalization thrives on isolation, but healing happens through connection.
“At an early age, I found out that racism has no color, and hatred is equal opportunity,” Churchill said. “Being a survivor of violence, I became obsessed with the question: Why do people hurt themselves and others?”
Leek, who once belonged to a white supremacist group in San Diego, discussed how shame, fear, and financial hardship can make individuals susceptible to radicalization. Now an interventionist with Life After Hate, he works to help extremists find a way out by sharing his own journey.
“When I was involved with these things … the person I really hated was me,” Leek admitted. “I couldn’t cope with that. It took a lot of work to change that.”
Breaking the Cycle of Extremism
The discussion reinforced the importance of early intervention, community engagement, and the power of personal storytelling. Churchill emphasized that dehumanization fuels hate, making it easier for extremists to blame others for their own struggles. Instead, Parents for Peace focuses on restoring human connection and critical thinking.
“We’ve got to stop insulting each other and [start] working together—putting the politics aside and coming together,” Churchill said.
A Call to Action
With rising hate crimes and extremist recruitment on the rise, Parents for Peace is more committed than ever to providing families with the tools to intervene before it’s too late. Our confidential helpline is available to those struggling with loved ones being drawn into hate groups, offering expert guidance and peer support.
If you are concerned about someone at risk of radicalization, call our helpline today. To support our mission, consider donating or spreading awareness.
To read the full Daily Trojan article, click here.
