[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 103 (Monday, July 23, 2001)]
[Senate]
[Page S8056]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ACT OF 2001

  Mr. SMITH of Oregon. Madam President, I rise today to speak about 
hate crimes legislation I introduced with Senator Kennedy in March of 
this year. The Local law Enforcement Act of 2001 would add new 
categories to current hate crimes legislation sending a signal that 
violence of any kind is unacceptable in our society.
  I would like to describe a terrible crime that occurred October 23, 
1994 in Buena Park, California. Two men parked near a gay bar were 
slashed with broken bottles and beaten by a group of men who shouted 
anti-gay epithets and stole the victims' car.
  I believe that 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 of 2001 is now a symbol that can become 
substance. I believe that by passing this legislation, we can change 
hearts and minds as well.

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