Hate crime bill ACLU email

Dear Friend,

Hate crimes based on sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, and disability are a daily event. You can do something today to help stop this problem -- while still protecting free speech.

For years, the ACLU had to oppose hate crime bills because they were written in a way that could also chill speech that was constitutionally protected. But this year, Congress has a chance to get it right.

A new bill, introduced by Rep. John Conyers, protects victims of hate crimes while still safeguarding free speech. Please take a moment and tell Congress to pass this landmark legislation.

Federal hate crimes legislation is necessary because sometimes, due to inadequate resources or bias against the victim, state and local law enforcement officers don’t act. By telling your representative to support the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act (H.R. 1592), you can help reduce hate crimes and ensure that our laws are fully consistent with both the Equal Protection Clause and the First Amendment.

A vote in the House of Representatives is scheduled for this Thursday afternoon, May 3. Please take action now: Tell your representative to support H.R. 1592.

Representative Conyers' bill will go a long way toward ensuring that hate crimes are treated seriously. At the same time, this bill takes an approach consistent with the constitution: it shows that it is possible to protect victims of hate crimes without jeopardizing free speech or association rights. It includes an explicit ban on the use of speech or association to prove criminal activity, unless it specifically relates to the crime.

With voting expected this Thursday, there is no time to lose. There are two ways you can get involved right now:

1. Email your representative.

2. Follow up with a phone call urging your representative to vote YES on H.R. 1592 this Thursday, without weakening amendments and without sending it back to committee. Call (202) 224-3121 and ask for your representative by name. Or, use this link to look up their information and talking points.

By sending your representative an email and following up with a phone call, you can amplify your voice during this critical time.

Opponents of this bill have been hard at work flooding their representatives’ offices with calls and emails. It’s critical that we take action today to pass this important legislation.

Help protect civil rights and free speech. Urge your representative to vote YES on H.R. 1592.

Thank you for adding your voice to this fight.

Sincerely,


Caroline Fredrickson
Director
ACLU Washington Legislative Office