Eric Swalwell: “No American should live in fear of becoming a victim of a violent hate crime. In my role as the former lead hate crimes…”

“No American should live in fear of becoming a victim of a violent hate crime. In my role as the former lead hate crimes prosecutor for the Alameda County District Attorney's Office, I saw, firsthand, the devastating impact that hate crimes can have on our communities. Sadly, since taking office I have heard from constituents and leaders from the Hindu, Sikh, and Arab American communities about the ongoing threats that they face. That is why in March I sent a letter to the FBI Advisory Policy Board requesting that the FBI add three additional hate crime categories to track anti-Hindu, anti-Sikh, and anti-Arab American hate crimes. Gathering this information will encourage the affected community members to report hate crimes to law enforcement and will help strengthen relationships among communities, local and State law enforcement, and the FBI. I'm happy to report that the policy board followed up on my letter and has recommended that FBI Director Robert Mueller make these additions. Our progress towards addressing heinous hate crimes is possible because of groups like the Hindu American Foundation, who have been tireless advocates for the safety of their communities. I urge Director Mueller to act swiftly on the policy board's recommendation. This important step would extend protection to millions of Americans. ____________________”