[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 3 (Friday, January 25, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S134]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ACT OF 2001

  Mr. SMITH of Oregon. Mr. President, I rise today to speak about hate 
crimes legislation I introduced with Senator Kennedy in March of last 
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 November 8, 
1998, in Palm Springs, CA. A gay participant in Palm Springs' Gay Pride 
weekend was attacked by three men. The assailants, Raymond Quevedo, 18, 
and two youths, ages 16 and 17, were charged with assault with a deadly 
weapon in connection with the incident.
  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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