Hate crime laws might seem to be a comparatively recent introduction into the legal framework, yet they, in fact, have been in existence nearly since the emergence of the contemporary American justice system. With the first hate crime law having been introduced into the legal context by President Lyndon Johnson back in 1968, the specified notion has been guiding the prevention of hate crimes against vulnerable minorities. By promoting implementation of hate crime laws, one contributes to the enhancement of equality and creates opportunities to enshrine it not only into law but also in the social context.
In essence, hate crime laws imply that the any crime committed with the intent to harm one based on one’s belonging to racial or ethnic minorities, having a disability, or being a member of any marginalized group should be deemed as a crime driven by hate., the latter being considered an aggravating circumstance (Hate crime laws, n.d.). The concept of hate crime covers the core protected categories, thus, ensuring that the specified vulnerable minorities are not targeted criminally and are supported and protected by the criminal justice system (Hate crime laws, n.d.). Considering the sociocultural and sociopolitical tensions observed within American society presently, one will have to concede that hate crime laws are instrumental in safeguarding the needs and rights of vulnerable communities. Therefore, the introduction of hate crime laws into the present-day sociocultural and sociopolitical environment of the U.S. is crucial to maintaining order within the American community.
By encouraging the integration of hate crime laws into the present-day American community, one will promote the further focus on social justice. As a result, opportunities for supporting and protecting vulnerable communities and minority populations will become possible. Therefore, hate crime laws must be seen as essential to promoting social and criminal justice.
Reference
Hate crime laws. (n.d.). The U.S. Department of Justice. Web.