Wednesday, May 17, 2006

From The Congressional Record:

LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ENHANCEMENT ACT OF 2005 -- (Senate - May 17, 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 May 16, 2006, a 20-year-old Washington, DC, lesbian died after being shot in the head in what appears to have been a hate crime.

Crystal Smith died shortly before midnight when two unidentified men opened fire on her while standing on a street corner in Southeast Washington, DC. According to reports, the police department's Gay and Lesbian Liaison Unit is assisting in the investigation. The fact that Smith was shot in the head makes it appear more likely that she was targeted.

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.