Tina Smith: “today, I speak about the need for hate crimes legislation. Each Congress, Senator Kennedy and I introduce hate crimes…”

“today, I speak about the need for hate crimes legislation. Each Congress, Senator Kennedy and I introduce hate crimes legislation that would add new categories to current hate crimes law, sending a signal that violence of any kind is unacceptable in our society. Likewise, each Congress I have come to the floor to highlight a separate hate crime that has occurred in our country. On January 11, 2006 in Stuart, FL, two men allegedly beat and robbed John Sprunger, a mentally handicapped man for $150. Earl Shanks called his friend Raymond Lee Dawson to the home of the victim, after trying to get Sprunger to give him money. When Dawson entered the home, he pistol-whipped Sprunger, and, assisted by Shanks, got his wallet before both men left the trailer. I believe that the Government's first duty is to defend its citizens, to defend them against the harms that come out of hate. The Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act is a symbol that can become substance. I believe that by passing this legislation and changing current law, we can change hearts and minds as well. ____________________”