Reform calls for expanded hate crime law

The Reform movement launched an online petition urging support for the expansion of federal hate crimes law.Along with a coalition of religious and civil rights organizations, the movement is calling for support for a federal law to expand protections for “individuals targeted because of their real or perceived sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or disability.” Currently the federal government can only offer assistance when an individual is targeted because of race, religion or national origin.”Endorsement of this bill by faith leaders is especially important because opponents have all too often implied that the legislation is hostile to religion,” said Rabbi David Saperstein, director of the Reform movement’s Religious Action Center. “The voices of a broad range of clergymen and women who preach that tolerance, acceptance and kindness are essential religious values are needed more than ever.”