DETROIT- Today Senator Hansen Clarke (D-Detroit) made the following statement in response to the recently released Anti-Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Violence in 2007 report.

“Hate crimes are among the most cowardly, vicious acts committed. I regret to learn that the number of reported hate crimes has more than doubled in the last year. It is not too late to stop the hate and through my legislation the Michigan’s Ethnic Intimidation Act will expand, increasing punishment for hate crimes and adding extra protection to Michigan’s gay and transgender community. To keep Michigan citizens safe, I look to my colleagues to support my bill.”

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