Business, Community Leaders Launch Hate Crime Coalition

United Way of Central Indiana CEO Ann Murtlow calls the launch a "unifying moment."

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A group of business, nonprofit, education and faith leaders has launched a coalition to push for a hate crimes law in next year’s legislative session. Indianapolis-based Eli Lilly and Co. (NYSE: LLY) Senior Director of Government Affairs Michael O’Connor says the state must send a clear message that "Indiana is a safe place in which to live, work and do business."

Indiana remains one of five states without a specific hate crimes law. Governor Eric Holcomb has announced the issue would be among his top priorities in 2019. The Indiana Chamber of Commerce has also voiced its support for the legislation. The issue gained more attention in Indiana after a Carmel synagogue was vandalized.

United Way of Central Indiana President and Chief Executive Officer Ann Murtlow calls the launch "a unifying moment for Indiana’s corporate, nonprofit, advocacy and faith communities." 

The coalition is calling for legislation that allows judges to increase sentences when a crime was motivated by bias against a victim for characteristics including race, ethnicity, religion, nationality, sex, disability, gender identity and sexual orientation.