[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 49 (Thursday, April 21, 2005)]
[Senate]
[Page S4099]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ENHANCEMENT ACT OF 2005

  Mr. SMITH. Mr. President, I speak about the need for hate crimes 
legislation. Each Congress, Senator Kennedy and I introduce hate crimes 
legislation that would add new categories to current hate crimes law, 
sending a signal that violence of any kind is unacceptable in our 
society. Likewise, each Congress I have come to the floor to highlight 
a separate hate crime that has occurred in our country.
  Last month, a fifth person was arrested and charged with beating up a 
teenager because of his sexual orientation. The victim, an 18-year-old 
from Virginia, was at a gathering at his cousin's home. Late that 
night, the five assailants repeatedly kicked and hit the victim with a 
chair because he was gay.
  I believe that the 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. By 
passing this legislation and changing current law, we can change hearts 
and minds as well.

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