Create civil penalties for hate crimes that will allow victims and families to sue and obtain damages from the criminals. Require that counties annually report hate crimes prosecution to the State. Create a division within the Attorney General's office that would monitor hate crimes. Provide aid to counties with populations under 125,000 for prosecuting hate crimes. Conform Texas law to the Supreme Court's Apprendi standard by requiring that motive be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
Public demonstrations receive mixed reviews from politicos and activists alike.
Austin, however, has never been shy to march and protest on the steps of the capital. Gays and lesbians, women's groups, labor groups, and those opposed to the death penalty march annually to physically express their views. LGRL has arranged for Texas youth to lead the march to the capital on Sunday. Thousands of pieces of mail were sent to groups and individuals across the state and at least fifty youth are traveling from Dallas to participate in the march. It will be awesome to be there with the other people who are fighting for equality.