[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 132 (Wednesday, September 24, 2003)]
[Senate]
[Page S11902]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ACT OF 2003

  Mr. SMITH. Mr. President, I rise today to speak about the need for 
hate crimes legislation. On May 1, 2003, Senator Kennedy and I 
introduced the Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act, a bill that would 
add new categories to current hate crimes law, sending a signal that 
violence of any kind is unacceptable in our society.
  I would like to describe a terrible crime that occurred in Berkeley, 
CA. On May 12, 2003, the victim, a 23-year-old male Sikh wearing a 
turban, was assaulted while on an evening walk at the University of 
California. The attacker, and his two male companions, started to walk 
past the victim, then yelled, ``Taliban, look out!'' The suspect 
punched the victim in the nose then pushed him to the ground. The 
suspect later pulled the victim back to his feet and the men left the 
scene on foot.
  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 is 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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