Meet the Georgia delegation (aka Super 6) who l had the honor and privilege to lobby with on the hill Tuesday. Our task was to meet with our two Senators, and three Congressman and tell “our story” in the hope we would encourage them to support passage of the “Hate Crimes” bill or as it’s formally known Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act (H. R. 1913). This bill has been kicking around Congress for many years, and the stars seem to be aligning this year for it to perhaps become law. This afternoon it passed out of the house and Senator Kennedy has introduced it into the Senate.
We were part of a larger delegation organized by the National Center for Transgender Equality based in DC. I’ve lobbied with NCTE before, and there is no finer organization when it comes to training, preparation and political savvy. The ED of NCTE is Mara Keisling, who I admire for her political wonkiness, incredible sense of humor and dedication to seeking equality for all. Her staff reflects this same dedication and good nature.
Many stories will be written about why this bill was necessary, among the many good reasons, is this:
The Hate Crimes Prevention Act is supported by nearly 300 civil rights, education, religious, and civic organizations. The bill is also endorsed by virtually every major law enforcement organization in the country–including the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the National District Attorneys Association, the National Sheriffs Association, the Police Executive Research Forum, and thirty-one state Attorneys General.
But at the end of the day it’s about hate, and violence against folks who are just people going about their daily lives. It’s about the Government being an institution of support and investigation and not re-victimization. When this bill is fully made law, local law enforcement will be taught that it’s not OK to look the other way when women, disabled, gay and trans people are brutalized. It sends a message to everyone that while you may think whatever you like, you can’t act on it and hope to get away with it.
I spent a day and half with my new best friends, I heard their stories, I heard them ask their dully elected officials for support and consideration. In the case of the GA Dem delegation they were heard. In the case of the opposition, it fell on very deaf ears.
I will post a few other adventures in activism, later. I have pictures of Ron Paul too…
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