Visit Your Local PBS Station PBS Home PBS Home Programs A-Z TV Schedules Watch Video Support PBS Shop PBS Search PBS

May 4, 2007

YOUNG VOICES

Hate Crimes - "A Savage Hypocrisy"
by Rose Capozzi


 

A new hate crime bill, which would increase the punishments under federal law for hate-motivated violent acts based on gender, sexual orientation, sexual identity, and disability, will not make it past the President's desk. And for good reason.

Everyone is entitled to equal protection under the law. Beating anyone is a crime, whether the intent behind the beating is to steal a wallet or because of the victim's personal characteristics. The legal system should not give preferential treatment to certain classes who experience violent crimes...anyone who experiences a crime deserves justice.

As Trey Parker eloquently explained in his hit show, South Park:

"it is time to stop splitting people into groups. All hate crimes do is support the idea that blacks are different from whites, that homosexuals need to be treated differently from non-homos, that we aren't the same. But instead, we should all be treated the same, with the same laws and the same punishments for the same crimes."

If we really desire to live in a society where justice is blind, then our laws should reflect that desire.

Read a different opinion on expanding the hate crime law.

REACTION

SHARE YOUR COMMENT

Name  

E-Mail Address  

City & State  

Message  

You may post this with my name  

You may post this without my name  

Please do not post this  

Comments are moderated and will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive. They may be edited for length and clarity. We will never share or publish your e-mail address.