INDIANAPOLIS – The push for a hate crime law in Indiana has regained momentum following violence in Charlottesville, and Indiana House Speaker said he supports the idea.
Several attempts to pass the law in Indiana have failed, but lawmakers said Brian Bosma’s support is a significant development. Senate democrats and members of the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus said they are hopeful with Bosma’s approval, there is a better chance of the law passing next session.
In previous proposals, a hate crime was defined as one motivated by a victim’s race, color, creed, disability, national origin, sexual orientation, gender or gender identity.
"So we're sending a message to anybody who's thinking about committing a hate crime that it is not welcome in the State of Indiana,” said Rep. Cherrish Pryor. “Quite honestly, it should be the message that's clearly sent from the national government, that it is not acceptable in this country."
Indiana is one of five states without a hate crime law.
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