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About the Division

Mission & History

The idea for a Division on Terrorism and Bias Crimes (DTBC) was formualted by Dr. Gary LaFree as early as 2013, and the Division was formally established by the American Society of Criminology in 2015. Today, the DTBC seeks to advance theory, knowledge and practice in the study of terrorism and bias crimes through rigorous research and evaluation. The Division recognizes the importance of understanding the human causes and consequences of terrorism and bias crimes. It is committed to advancing the scientific study on Terrorism and Bias Crimes, testing innovation in the field, and promoting excellence in practice through translational activities. These goals can be achieved by facilitating a dialogue and building partnerships among Terrorism and Bias Crimes scholars, practitioners, policy makers, community leaders, and students of Terrorism and Bias Crimes. Read the DTBC Constitution here.

If you would like to donate to the Division, please click here or submit a start-up donation when you join the Division on Terrorism and Bias Crimes at the same time you renew your membership with ASC.

Purposes & Objectives
  • Advance the development of scholarly research in Terrorism and Bias Crimes through collegiality, mentorship, and active engagement with ASC membership.
  • Support, facilitate and encourage interaction and dissemination of Terrorism and Bias Crimes research among ASC members, practitioners, funding agencies, policy-making bodies, and other relevant groups.
  • Organize and promote ASC conference sessions and special events related to Terrorism and Bias Crimes research.
  • Advance the members of the Division through the establishment of awards within the Division and collectively in nominating members for ASC awards and elected positions.

Division Leadership

The DTBC has an Executive Board comprised of the Division’s current officers (Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary/Treasurer, and Web Manager), the immediate past Chair, and three Executive Counselors.  In addition to the aforementioned offices, the Board also includes up to two student members.

The DTBC Executive Board forms policies and procedures for the Division, provides advice, coordinates resources and events, administers the budget, and suggests and approves committees and committee chairs. DTBC members are not required to be part of the Executive Board to serve on a committee.

Find a full description of eligibility requirements for each position and the election process in our Constitution. Generally, three offices are up for election each year.  A call for nominations will be sent to active Division members prior to each election cycle.  An election committee will collect and review nominations, and the web master will prepare a ballot to be sent to current membership. Offices will change hands at the DTBC General Meeting at ASC each year.
2024-2025 Executive Board

Become a DTBC Member and Join the Division Today!

Membership in the Division is open to all ASC members in good standing. A member in good standing is one who is current in their dues. Members who have paid Divisional dues will be considered eligible for voting at Divisional meetings, for the election of Divisional officers and to hold office.  Membership dues are $15 active member; $10 student member.  As with the other divisions, you can now join the Division on Terrorism and Bias Crimes at the same time you join ASC or renew your ASC membership. You can also donate directly to the Division here.

Join the Division