[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 152 (Monday, October 27, 2003)]
[Senate]
[Page S13262]
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 such a crime committed on July 30, 2001. In 
Santa Ana, CA, a 22-year-old man stabbed his 17-year-old Asian 
neighbor, Kenneth Chiu, as the victim was returning from a date. Before 
dying, Mr. Chiu identified his attacker who later confessed that he 
targeted Mr. Chiu because of his identity. He told investigators that 
he hated Asians and other ethnic minorities.
  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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