Source: The New York Times

On May 3, 2002, The New York Times featured an editorial in favor of new hates-crimes legislation. "In the wake of Sept. 11, President Bush sent out a welcome message that this nation would not tolerate attacks on Muslims or any other Americans because of their religion or national origin. Now Congress has a chance to back up the president's promise by passing an important hate-crimes bill, the Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act, which would expand the scope of the federal government to investigate and prosecute anyone who targets racial and religious minorities, gays, the disabled and other groups because of hate."