The Washington Post reported last Thursday the broadening of federal hate crime laws to include those motivated by “gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability”. Before the expansion of the law, hate crimes cover only those motivated by race, color, national origin, or religion. (See related post: “Calling All Hate Crime Victims”)
The vote passed with a wide margin (63-28) overcoming efforts from Republicans to block the legislation. Asian American groups support the new law, including the Asian American Justice Center who rallied for its passage. Senators Akaka and Inouye of Hawaii voted yea. Nevada Senator John Ensign voted nay. (See related post: “First Chinese American Woman in Congress”)
John Ensign, a veterinarian, pursues his animal advocacy as a U.S. Senator, particularly on federal legislature for the protection of animals against mistreatment. Animals first, people second, Senator?
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