Chile approves hate-crime law after gay bashing
Chile approves hate-crime law after gay bashing
By EVA VERGARA Associated Press
Posted: 05/09/2012 08:35:20 PM MDT
SANTIAGO, Chile—Chile's congress passed a hate-crimes law Wednesday night, months after a group of alleged neo-Nazis were arrested in the brutal murder of a young gay man.
The law enables people to file anti-discrimination lawsuits and adds hate-crime sentences for violent crimes. Gay activists waved Chilean flags when it passed by a vote of 25-to-3.
The law was stuck in Congress for seven years, but President Sebastian Pinera put it on the fast track after the death of Daniel Zamudio in March prompted people all across Chile to discuss hate crimes. He was found beaten and mutilated in a city park, with swastikas carved into his body. Lawmakers also are preparing to debate the president's proposed civil union law granting inheritance and other rights to same-sex couples.
"It's an enormous culture change for our country," said Sen. Alberto Espina, with the center-right ruling coalition.
"Chile is a country that discriminates against Mapuche (Indians), homosexuals, that discriminates against people for their nationality and for having disabilities," he added. "We have to assume this as a reality instead of hiding it under the rug."
More:
http://www.elpasotimes.com/juarez/ci_20588206/chile-approves-hate-crime-law-after-gay-bashing
