COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act seeks to address rise in anti-Asian-American violence.
On Wednesday the Senate formally introduced the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act to the floor. Following a leadership agreement at the beginning of the term, the political parties overcame a possible filibuster to begin debate on the bill. In its current form, the bill would require a member of the Department of Justice to “facilitate the expedited review of COVID-19 hate crimes and reports of COVID-19 hate crimes.”
A statement from the White House supported the bill, stating, “Elected leaders must act to prevent anti-Asian violence and advance inclusion and belonging for all Asian American communities.” Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell also stressed the importance of addressing the violence saying he is a “proud husband of an Asian American woman,” and that he thinks “this discrimination against Asian Americans is a real problem.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- That God would protect Asian-Americans from racist violence.
- For the Senate to have wisdom on the best course of action to take with this bill.
- That the White House would partner with Congress to pass the strongest possible laws for the country.
Sources: AP, The Hill, Congress.gov
