NCJW Applauds House Passage of Hate Crimes Bill
April 29, 2009, Washington, DC -- The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) today applauds passage of the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2009 by the House of Representatives. NCJW President Nancy Ratzan released the following statement:
"NCJW is proud to have played a key role in achieving passage of the Matthew Shepard Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act today in the House of Representatives. This bill is a critical step in the long battle against crimes inspired by hate. It is also long overdue -- efforts to ensure hate crimes protections for all go back a decade. The legislation that passed today would expand the definition of a hate crime to include those violent offenses motivated by the victim's actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity, gender, or disability. It would also assist local law enforcement agencies in fighting bias-motivated crimes and would empower the federal government to prosecute crimes where local authorities are unable or unwilling to do so.
"The Matthew Shepard Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act would not only have a strong practical impact on the prosecution of hate crimes, it would also send a powerful message of our nation's renewed commitment to ending the scourge of hate violence that sows fear and terror in the hearts of its victims and their communities. NCJW strongly urges the Senate to follow the lead of the House in a timely manner. Our advocacy will continue until this bill is signed into law."
The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms.
Contact:
Emily Alfano
202 296 2588 x5; emily@ncjwdc.org