[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 96 (Tuesday, July 16, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S6861]
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 August 1, 
2001 in Roanoke, VA. Two men and the pastor of a predominantly gay 
church were attacked by three men after a Bible study and prayer 
meeting, police and the pastor said. The Rev. Catherine Houchins was 
struck in the face as she tried to call 911 on her cellular phone after 
the initial attack. The attackers, who came out of an alley as the 
victims were getting into their cars, were heard to yell obscenities 
related to the victims' sexual orientation.
  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 and changing 
current law, we can change hearts and minds as well.

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