Today, President Obama signed into law the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act.  Federal hate crime legislation has been a national priority since the civil rights era because Americans realize that bias-motivated crimes of violence erode the very fabric of who we are as a nation. 

“This legislation extends legal protection to those who experience violence based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability.  This law also closes the gaps in civil rights law and brings it into a 21^st century context,” stated Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke.  “It sends a strong and clear message that hate crimes will no longer be tolerated.”

“I congratulate President Obama on moving the country towards a society based on equality for all, and I applaud my constituents for fighting a good fight!” concluded Rep. Clarke.

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