The speeches were offered amid news that swastikas were painted on a predominantly black church in Dallas. The vandalism happened overnight at St. Luke's Community United Methodist Church. Senator Royce West of Dallas says think about the psychological impact that such vandalism will have on the kids attending that church.
Backers are one vote shy of having enough support to have the bill debated.
The James Byrd Junior Hate Crimes Act is named for the black man from Jasper who was dragged to death in 1998. Three white men were convicted. The bill would strengthen penalties for crimes motivated by race, religion, color, disability, sexual preference, national origin or ancestry. The sexual orientation part of the bill, which includes protections for gays and lesbians, has been the sticking point for some conservatives. JOBS One of the Top Ten Television Websites in the Country.