Letters to the Editor

‘Hate Violence Deserves Priority Attention'

In his misinformed and fear-mongering column attacking hate crime laws, Kenneth Blackwell claims that the current bill pending before Congress would "punish thoughts and opinions," "criminalize beliefs" and "create a judicial caste system in American society" ("Jailing Thoughts," June 7).

He is wrong on all points. Hate crime laws – now on the books in 45 states and the District of Columbia and unanimously upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court – do not punish thought. They punish actions, and are triggered only when an individual commits a hate crime that is motivated by bias or prejudice.

Hate crime laws do not confer "special rights." These laws – like anti-discrimination laws in the workplace – are color-blind and demonstrate an essential commitment by our society to address and deter all prejudiced conduct.

Mr. Blackwell seems to suggest that the legislation is supported only by Democrats, liberals, and "secular fundamentalists." That ignores the support of nearly 300 religious, education, and civil rights organizations – as well as the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the National District Attorneys Association, the National Sheriffs Association and 26 state attorneys general.

Hate violence deserves priority attention. When enacted into law, this legislation will improve the criminal justice system's ability to respond to these devastating crimes.

Sincerely,

Joel J. Levy
New York Regional Director
Anti-Defamation League
New York City

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