[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 4 (Friday, January 23, 2004)]
[Senate]
[Page S216]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                   LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ACT OF 2001

 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.
  Leonard ``Lynn'' Vines, a cross-dresser and native of East Baltimore, 
was attacked in front of his cousin's home and shot six times by a 
group of people asserting ``we don't allow no drag queen faggots in 
this neighborhood.'' Fortunately, Vines survived the attack.
  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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