[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 25 (Friday, March 8, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S1704]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                   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 July 10, 1999 
in Anchorage, AK. A gay man, Alexander Paul Nicholai, 45, was stabbed 
to death in his apartment. The attacker, Kenneth J. Washington, 21, who 
claimed he was defending himself against unwanted sexual advances, was 
charged with first-degree murder 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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