FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 9, 2010
Contact: Michael Cox (503) 929-6404
Rep. Kotek Supports New Online Hate Crimes Reporting Feature
STATEMENT FROM REP. TINA KOTEK (D-N/NE PORTLAND)
“The news that over Memorial Day weekend crimes were committed against Oregonians simply because they are gay is a stark reminder that we must do more to battle hate crimes in Oregon. That some of these crimes went unreported is unfortunate. That is why I applaud Attorney General John Kroger’s announcement of a new online hate crime reporting form.
“Victims often have legitimate fears about going public by reporting hate crimes. An anonymous, online reporting system has the potential to encourage victims to seek justice.
“I also support AG Kroger’s plan to compile a five-year list of hate crimes in Oregon. In this day and age, in the great state of Oregon, it is simply no longer an option to ignore the real threats the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community faces on a regular basis. We must protect the civil rights of all Oregonians, regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity.”
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