hate crime legislation is really important, and extending it to gays, handicapped people, etc..is vital. Like people have been explaining, it's not for the attacker, it's for the people. It draws attention to the issue, makes people take a stand. Hate crimes are guaranteed to bring more publicity and with that comes communication. If people realize how serious the government and communities are taking bigotry against gays, minorities, etc...that will translate into their behavior. Currently gay-bashing is still very socially acceptable, but hate crime legislation, along with other action, can make it more of a stigma. BTW, gay-bashing, even from okayplayer artists, is whack. Like Chris Rock would say, "all y'all at least got an Uncle that's gay." It kills me to see MCs that I respect gettin all homophobic, but as Common would say hehe, who is known for his homophobia "one day it'll all make sense."

"they say you are what you eat, so I strove to eat healthy, my goal in life is not to be rich or wealthy, cuz true wealth comes from good health and wise ways" -Dead Prez

the imperfect is our paradise - wallace stevens