Wyoming is one of three states that does not currently have a hate crime law.  It’s time to change that. This petition is created to show support for Wyoming lawmakers to create a hate crime bill and pass it into law. Wyoming needs to pass a law that increases the penalty for bias-motivated crimes. According to the United States Justice Department, a Hate Crime Law is “a specific statute that criminalizes acts motivated by the victim’s identifying with a particular group or groups. Often these groups include race, religion, national origin, and disability.”

From the Anti-Defamation League:  “Why have hate crime laws?
Whenever a bias-motivated crime is committed, the victim’s entire community is left feeling victimized, vulnerable, fearful, isolated, and unprotected by the law. Such crimes can also lead to reprisals and a dangerous spiral of escalating inter-group tension and violence.  Thus, the impact of the crime is far greater than the already terrible impact on the individual”

Along with signing this petition please consider talking to your local legislators and contacting Mark Gordon’s office. In order for this to happen, we need our lawmakers and leaders on our side. Vote for legislators who will support this movement. Email and call to help create momentum. As uncomfortable as it may be to acknowledge racism, sexism, homophobia and all forms of bigotry exist in Wyoming. It’s time for Wyoming to stand up and act now to do what’s right.