Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act of 2005

LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ENHANCEMENT ACT OF 2005

Mr. SMITH. Mr. President, I rise today to 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.

The assault of two gay men in San Francisco, CA last Wednesday was apparently motivated by the sexual orientation of the victims. Two gay men were approached by a group of men late in the evening. The group of men, which was comprised of men in their early 20s yelling anti-gay slurs, began assaulting the two gay victims. To escape the assault, the two victims ran inside a nearby bar, but were followed by the group of assailants. Both of the men suffered injuries to their face as a result of the beating.

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. I believe that by passing this legislation and changing current law, we can change hearts and minds as well.

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