NCJW Grieves for Victims of Pittsburgh Area Attack; Urges Final Passage of Hate Crimes Bill
August 7, 2009, WASHINGTON, DC – The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) today expressed its grief and anger over the brutal attack on women at a Pittsburgh area health club, resulting in the deaths of three women on Tuesday. NCJW President Nancy Ratzan released the following statement:
"The heinous murder of three women killed at random in a mass attack on a fitness center near Pittsburgh, PA, meets the classic definition of a hate crime. By the killer's own account, the victims were selected at random to express rage and hatred of members of a particular group – in this case, women. The result is the terrible loss of Elizabeth Gannon, 49; Heidi Overmier, 46; and Jody Billingsley, 37, all members of an aerobics class targeted by the murderer. Our hearts go out to the victim's families and friends, and we extend our wishes for a full recovery to those injured in the attack.
"NCJW members in Pittsburgh have joined with other groups to organize a candlelight vigil in memorial to the victims. We must all remember them and other hate crimes victims by urging Congress to ensure enactment of the Matthew Shepard Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act, which is in the final stages of the legislative process. This vitally important legislation 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 assist local law enforcement agencies in fighting bias-motivated crimes and empower the federal government to prosecute crimes where local authorities are unable or unwilling to do so.
"Clearly the Pittsburgh area attack has ramifications for preventing violence against women, keeping guns away from demented individuals, and ensuring that those in need of mental health treatment receive it. But enactment of a strengthened federal hate crimes law is an essential element in our nation's efforts to combat the scourge of attacks like the one near Pittsburgh. We urge the House and Senate to send a final bill to President Obama for his signature as soon as possible."
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:
Elissa Froman
202 296 2588 x3; elissa@ncjwdc.org