Congressman Al Green's Statement on the Death of David Ritcheson

(Houston, TX)--Today. Congressman Al Green (TX-09) released the following statement regarding the death of 18-year-old pipe attack victim, David Ritcheson.

“My thoughts and prayers go out to the friends and family of young David Ritcheson.  On that horrendous day in April 2006 the viciousness and hate of two individuals changed the course of David’s life forever.  Although he struggled through over 30 surgeries, David showed us all the power of his strength and courage when he came to Washington just three months ago and urged my colleagues on the House Judiciary Committee to fight for passage of the Hate Crimes Prevention Act.  Shortly after David’s visit, the House of Representatives passed HR 1592 the bi0partisan Hate Crimes Prevention Act, a bill which focuses on providing new resources to help state and local law enforcement agencies prevent and prosecute hate crimes, and also closes gaps in current federal hate crimes law.

“Hate crimes spread fear and violence among too many American communities.  This great nation was founded on the ideals of liberty and justice for all. America is not a nation of hate.  When we allow innocent Americans to suffer physical violence because of the color of their skin, their age, their gender, or personal preferences- we do a disservice to the very essence of our nation.  The time has come for our federal government to stand up for the rights of all Americans to exist freely- without fear from prejudice.  The time has come for our federal government to truly provide liberty and justice for all Americans.  Let us, today, in David’s honor and in his own words work to further fulfill the mission he took on to ‘do what ever he could to help make our great country, the United States of America, a hate free place to live’.”