CFE's INTERIM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COMMENTS ON HATE CRIMES LEGISLATION

M E D I A R E L E A S E

October 22, 2009

CFE HAILS HATE CRIME BILL, URGES PRESIDENT TO SIGN

“This is a landmark day for America as well as many faith leaders who have lobbied for the passage of hate crimes legislation,” said Pastor Samuel M. Chu, Interim Executive Director for California Faith for Equality. “After years of debate, there will soon be new federal protections extended to people who are victimized because of their gender, gender identification, or sexual orientation, or disability. CFE urges President Obama to sign this bill as he has promised.

“We appreciate and applaud the work of Judy and Denis Shepherd and the Mathew Shepherd Foundation for their years of dedicated work to pass this legislation.

“We pray that love will prevail over hate and hate-inspired crimes will cease to exist. We look for the extended protections to take place soon so that LGBTI Americans will know that their government will protect them from violence and provide justice for victims and their families.”