[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 125 (Monday, September 30, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S9592]
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 June 20, 2001 
in Albany, NY. A gay man was beaten while sitting on a bench next to a 
bike path. The assailants, three teens, approached the victim, used 
anti-gay slurs, and repeatedly punched him in the head with their 
fists. Investigators believe the victim was targeted because of his 
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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