LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Pushing for a comprehensive hate crimes bill in Indiana.Â
That's what several Hoosiers were doing at Bicentennial Park in New Albany Sunday afternoon.
Members of Indiana Forward and other advocacy groups say they want a bill that would create tougher sentences for people already convicted of an existing crime.
Last month, Senate Republicans passed a stripped-down version of the hate crimes bill, which removed a list of protections including race, gender identity and sexual orientation.
"We must come together and make sure the legislators listen to us, respect us, and make sure that our request happens," said Elijah Mahan, with Shelly's Voice Advocacy Group.
Indiana is one of only five states without a hate crimes law. Republican Governor Eric Holcomb says passing a hate crimes law is "long overdue."
Related stories:
- Gov. Holcomb plans public appeal on Indiana hate crimes law
- Indiana Senate approves stripped-down hate crimes bill
- Indiana Senate removes sexual orientation, gender identity, race, other characteristics from hate crimes bill
- Indiana Senate panel hearing state hate crimes bill
- Support growing for hate crime bill in Indiana
- Indiana governor says passing hate crime law 'long overdue'
- Indiana Gov. Holcomb says hate crimes bill a priority for 2019 legislature
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