Why the Hate Crime Bill is Necessary

The Traditional Values Coalition (TVC) released a symbolic “Wanted” poster today for the arrest of Jesus Christ and those who follow Him for violating the proposed Hate Crimes law (H.R. 1592).

“The free exercise of religious speech will be criminalized eventually if this so-called Hate Crimes legislation becomes law,” said Rev. Louis P. Sheldon, TVC Founder and Chairman

“Liberal and homosexual extremists want to silence people of faith whose religious beliefs condemn homosexual behavior. This bill effectively adds a footnoted exception to the First Amendment of the Constitution – ‘none of these protections apply to Christians or other people of faith.’

“The so-called ‘hate crime’ legislation begins to lay the legal foundation and framework to investigate, prosecute and persecute pastors, business owners, and anyone else whose actions are based upon and reflect the truths found in the Bible.

If these self-described Christians wish to praise their God for every dead American solder or for HIV to kill gay and lesbian American citizens, let them do so within the slimy walls of hatred they call their church. The federal Hate Crime bill should put an end to the public display of the disgusting bigotry shown here. What makes Rev. Sheldon believe his life is of a greater value than that of any gay or lesbian citizen? It will take years to undo the damage done to our society by Bush and company encouraging the fundies.