Rt. Rev. V. Gene Robinson
Following up to H.R. 1913, which I mentioned here and here, The Washington Post reported today that U.S. Episcopal Bishop V. Gene Robinson will lead a multi-faith group of over 300 clergy tomorrow in advocating the passage of the hate crimes bill that would add the broad category of “sexual orientation” under federal protection. Many US conservative Christian groups have voiced grave concern over the bill, noting that existing federal and state laws offer harsh penalties for such crimes already and that the introduction of new “orientation” language paves the way for “special class” status that will ultimately foster discrimination against conservative Christians. From the Post:
The U.S. Episcopal Church’s first openly gay bishop is among hundreds of clergy members urging Congress to support gay rights, including the passage of an expanded hate crimes bill that would give gay victims of violence new federal protections.
V. Gene Robinson of New Hampshire and more than 300 clergy of various faiths will spend Tuesday on Capitol Hill lobbying lawmakers to push through a bill that broadens the definition of hate crimes to include those motivated by a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity and disability. The legislation was passed by the House last week.
Clergy also will push for legislation providing protections against workplace discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.
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