Pelosi Statement on Five-Year Anniversary of Historic Hate Crimes Legislation

Contact: Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616

San Francisco – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi issued the following statement today marking five years since President Obama signed into law the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act, as part of the National Defense Authorization Act. The legislation deters hate crimes by expanding federal protections and equipping state and local law enforcement with the tools needed to prosecute hate crimes based on sexual orientation, race, religion, gender, national origin, disability, or gender identity.

"Five years ago today, President Obama's signature on the Hate Crimes Prevention Act toppled a barrier between lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans and justice. With this law, our nation affirmed that no one should suffer persecution, discrimination, or violence because of who they are, who they love, where they come from, how they look, or what they believe.

"The families of Matthew Shepard, James Byrd Jr. and all Americans whose lives have been threatened or taken by people envenomed with hatred deserve justice. They deserve the fullest protection of the law. They deserve a lasting legacy that ensures that every American can enjoy the inalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

"President Obama and Attorney General Holder's leadership in affirming that hatred and bigotry have no place in the United States of America strengthens our country for generations to come. On this anniversary, let us continue to strive to create a beloved community where all people have equal access to peace, security, justice and equality."

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