Too little, but never too late

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the fiscal year 2010 Defense Authorization Bill last week by a vote of 281 to 146 after voting last July to attach the Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act to the bill.

It speaks to the Democratic leadership’s dedication that they attached the legislation, which expands the definition of hate crimes to include crimes against victims selected for their sexual orientation and gender identity.

However, the measure may not have passed if it hadn’t been attached to must-pass legislation.

The passage of this bill brings the more inclusive hate crimes legislation closer than ever to President Obama’s desk.

Advocates for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender equality in Indiana owe Rep. Baron Hill, D-9th District, a big thank-you for his vote. Hill was even supportive of earlier, more trans-inclusive legislation.

Other Indiana representatives articulated the opposition stance. Rep. Mike Pence, R-6th District, made the ridiculous assertion that broadening the definition of hate crimes would limit freedom of speech.

Arguments like Pence’s aren’t likely to gain much support in the Senate, and hopefully the bill will pass swiftly toward President Obama’s desk.

Of course, both houses of Congress are currently unable to pass even the most basic extension of rights to GLBT citizens – that is, the right to be protected from hate-motivated crime.

The passage of this legislation will depend upon agreement on the defense authorization budget.

The House leadership made a smart move by attaching the hate crimes bill to the defense spending bill – politics can be a dirty game, and this move showed that advocates for gay rights are learning how to play.

However, the effort it took to get something like hate crimes in the door also reveals just how tightly the door will be shut on future fights for the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, the repeal of “don’t ask, don’t tell” and eventual marriage equality.

If Obama is able to sign the hate crimes legislation into law, it will be an important milestone not only politically but for every family member, friend, ally and GLBT person who has feared hate-based victimization. But it’s still only the first step.