Some Guys Are Normal

Speaking of Hate Crimes

Hate crimes are top of mind for a lot of people right now as the legislation to add sexual orientation to federal hate crimes laws has passed the Congress and is expected to do the same in the Senate. Sadly, from what I hear, President Bush plans to veto the bill. Note to the President--if your reason for vetoing the bill is that hate crime laws aren't necessary at all, you should really consider repealing all hate crime laws. You know, the ones that protect nearly all other groups of peoples, including whites, males, and Christians (despite what the far-right might tell you) along with the groups you hear about--blacks, women, and Jews.

But hate crimes have been on my mind for a while now. Recently I made a post listing several anti-gay hate crimes that had occurred in just the last couple of weeks. Reading blogs and news sites, I'm pretty sure that could be a regular post for me--it happens that often (again despite what some of the far-right would like you to believe).

But, in case you still think hate crimes laws aren't necessary, try reading this graphic first-hand account of what it's like to be gay bashed and then what it's like to have to drive yourself to the hospital because the police and EMT's at the scene don't seem to be too sympathetic to your gay-bashed bloodied face. Pretty unbelievable, but it still happens. Hate crimes laws prevent this type of response, at least in the courts. Sadly, some people, even in positions of power, still think it's ok to beat someone senseless because they're gay, and hate crimes laws make sure their personal views don't get in the way of justice.

posted by Brady @ 7:22 AM