    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1998, Book I)]
    [June 24, 1998]
    [Pages 1042-1043]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Letter to Congressional Leaders on Proposed Hate Crimes Prevention
    Legislation
    June 24, 1998

    Dear __________:
        I am writing to urge the Senate (House) to act quickly this year to
    pass the Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 1998. This crucial legislation
    would expand the ability of the Justice Department to prosecute hate
    crimes by removing needless jurisdictional requirements for existing
    crimes and by giving Federal prosecutors the power to prosecute hate
    crimes committed because of the victim's sexual orientation, gender, or
    disability.

    [[Page 1043]]

        As you know, there have been a number of recent tragedies across our
    country that involve hate crimes. I know you were as troubled as I was
    by the vicious murder in Jasper, Texas, just two weeks ago. This
    shocking event focused America's attention on the problem of hate
    crimes. I hope we can join together to reaffirm that no American should
    be subjected to violence on account of his or her race, color, national
    origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender, or disability.
        Whether it is a gay American murdered as he walks home from work or
    a Jewish American whose synagogue is desecrated by swastikas, such acts
    are not only examples of bias and bigotry--they are crimes. They strike
    at the heart of what it means to be an American and at the values that
    define us as a Nation. That is why I believe now is the time for us to
    take strong and decisive action to fight hate crimes.
        There is nothing more important to the future of this country than
    our standing together against intolerance, prejudice, and violent
    bigotry. The Hate Crimes Prevention Act will lead the way in making all
    Americans more safe and secure. I implore you to move this vital piece
    of legislation through the Senate (House) without delay.
            Sincerely,

                                                          William J. Clinton

    Note: Identical letters were sent to Newt Gingrich, Speaker of the House
    of Representatives; Trent Lott, Senate majority leader; Thomas A.
    Daschle, Senate minority leader; and Richard A. Gephardt, House minority
    leader. An original was not available for verification of the content of
    this letter.