Thursday, May 11, 2006

From The Congressional Record:

LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ENHANCEMENT ACT OF 2005 -- (Senate - May 11, 2006)

Mr. SMITH. Mr. President, I rise today to speak about the need for hate crimes legislation. Each Congress, Senator Kennedy and I introduce hate crimes legislation that would add new categories to current hate crimes law, sending a signal that violence of any kind is unacceptable in our society. Likewise, each Congress I have come to the floor to highlight a separate hate crime that has occurred in our country.

On March 10, 2006, in Holland, MI, Jason Burns, a student at Hope College, was attacked leaving the campus library. Burns, a well-known gay rights advocate, frequently held lectures on homophobia after his freshman roommate moved out because of Burns' sexuality. While leaving the library a group of students attacked Burns, striking him multiple times and yelling homophobic epithets.

I believe that the Government's first duty is to defend its citizens, to defend them against the harms that come out of hate. The Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act is a symbol that can become substance. I believe that by passing this legislation and changing current law, we can change hearts and minds as well.