10/28/09 – On behalf of the City & County of San Francisco, I commend Congress and the President for their work on this milestone legislation to ensure the safety and rights of all Americans.

Hate crimes occur every day, in every state, and city.  They victimize not just individuals, but entire communities by perpetuating a climate of fear.

This long overdue legislation will be a powerful tool to protect those victimized by acts of bias and hate.