The Indiana legislature is debating proposed hate crimes legislation to include gender and sexual orientation characteristics. The goal of the legislation is to protect all Hoosiers from crimes motivated by hate. To make your voice heard, it is critical you contact your legislator. Please use the information below to let them hear you!
The Senate is expected to take up any legislation first so it’s important to reach out to your state Senator.
Phone calls are the most effective. If you are unable to do that, consider writing a letter to their office or sending an email. Here’s a suggested message to help you decide what to say – don’t hesitate to include elements of your own personal story if so willing.
Several in our community are taking action in support of this legislation.
If you wish to do so, the text below is a recommended template.
Sen. [NAME],
I live in [TOWN], and I am your constituent. [MENTION HERE THAT YOU ARE TRANS IF SO WILLING OR DESCRIBE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH TRANS PEOPLE].
Right now, the Indiana General Assembly is debating whether or not protections for transgender people should be included in a bias crimes bill. Transgender people are frequently targeted for violence and harassment, and deserve the same protection others enjoy. That’s why I’m asking you to support a fully inclusive hate crimes bill that includes specific protections for minorities frequently targeted for hateful violence and that includes gender identity as an identified category for protection. Please support SB 12 or SB 75 which are bills which provide this needed language and support.
