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Raja Calls for Oversight Committee Hearings to Address Wave of Hate Crimes

March 13, 2017

SCHAUMBURG, IL – In response to the continuing wave of hate-motivated attacks across the country, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, a member of the House Oversight Committee, released the following statement calling for hearings to investigate and determine the best response to these crimes:

"In the last few months, we have seen a continuing surge of hate-driven violence, vandalism, and threats against numerous communities. As a member of the House Oversight Committee, I'm calling for hearings to determine the root of this wave of hate crimes and how we may best combat these disturbing attacks on our people and American values.

From attacks on Indian-Americans to the desecration of Jewish cemeteries to multiple shootings targeting people of color who were told that this was not their country, these crimes have spanned our nation. The American people have refused to be idle bystanders to this wave of attacks, and have instead stood to resist each new affront to our common values. Recently, cemetery desecrations were met with waves of volunteers assisting in restorations. Mosque burnings were met with contributions from Americans of all faiths who sought to assist in the rebuilding. And when two Indian men in Kansas were shot, and one murdered, for the color of their skin, a third man recognized what was happening and heroically sought to intervene. These responses speak to the resilience of our people, the highest principles of our nation, and why we are proud to be Americans.

It is my hope that Chairman Chaffetz and Ranking Member Cummings of the Oversight Committee will call hearings to address this issue and to help guarantee the safety of all Americans. I will continue to push for these efforts."