In all of these cases, the federal laws are intended to protect individuals from violations of their basic rights, and to carry out the nation's larger responsibility to prevent discrimination against any of our fellow citizens. Hate crimes are modern-day lynchings that afflict communities throughout the nation. Again and again, lives have been shattered by the violence of hate. The most brutal and shocking hate crimes make national headlines. But thousands of other such crimes occur across America every year.
Constant vigilance is essential.
According to a study by the Southern Poverty Law Center, the number of hate groups has increased in recent years. Previously, hate groups would spread their messages using bulletin boards, newsletters, cable television and occasional rallies. Now, the Internet gives them access to a vastly increased audience that can be reached with little effort. Hate sites have proliferated at distressing rates, and recruitment by these groups has increased accordingly. Since any law restricting hate speech would run afoul of the First Amendment, it is important to emphasize the difference between such speech and hate crimes.