[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 126 (Tuesday, October 1, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S9707]
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 September 14, 
2001 in Alexandria, VA. A truck driver of Afghani descent was attacked 
in a parking lot just days after the terrorist attacks of September 11. 
The assailant, Michael Wayne Johnson, 49, pulled alongside the victim, 
asked if he was from Afghanistan, then jumped out of his truck and 
punched the victim. During the attack Mr. Johnson yelled ``I'm going to 
kill you!''
  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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