NCJW Welcomes Senate Reintroduction of the Hate Crimes Bill
May 1, 2003, Washington, DC -- The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) welcomes the reintroduction of the "Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act" today in the Senate. NJCW President Marsha Atkind released the following statement:
"Today's reintroduction of the 'Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act' in the Senate marks the continuation of the commitment of so many to end the scourge of hate violence in America. NCJW applauds the sponsors of this critical legislation and urges the Senate to act quickly towards its final passage.
"The 'Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act' commits the federal government to strengthen federal law to protect those victimized because of gender, sexual orientation, or disability on the same basis as those already protected against violence motivated by race or religion. By authorizing federal assistance, this bill provides help to local law enforcement officials who lack the resources to prosecute hate crimes with the necessary vigor. It also removes overly restrictive language from existing law that too often ties the hands of federal prosecutors.
"While some states have hate crimes laws on the books, few provide the comprehensive protection contained in this bill. The 'Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act' commits the nation anew to the national ideal of equal protection under the law.
"It is now time for Congress to make the statement that crimes of hate will not be tolerated in America. The 'Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act' is a constructive and measured response to violence motivated by prejudice."
NCJW is a volunteer organization, inspired by Jewish values, that works to improve the quality of life for women, children, and families and to ensure individual rights and freedoms for all through its network of 90,000 members, supporters, and volunteers nationwide.
Contact:
Erin Glazer
202 296 2588; erin@ncjwdc.org