Landmark hate crimes legislation has passed the House of Representatives and could be up for a vote in the near future in the U.S. Senate - where the radical right, terrified of this legislation, has stepped up their attacks.

The Matthew Shepard Act would expand current Federal hate crimes laws to include sexual orientation and gender identity - something more than two-thirds of Americans support. The bill would also give local law enforcement agencies the resources they need to investigate and prosecute these crimes.

The Human Rights Campaign, America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality, is leading the charge on this bill.

It is essential that we get a broad enough majority - and strong Republican support - to help the Senate pass the bill and discourage a presidential veto.

Tell your Senators to support the Matthew Shepard Act!

Dear Senator,

As your constituent, I am deeply concerned about hate crimes, and I am writing to ask that you continue to represent the interests of your state by supporting the Matthew Shepard Act.

Americans overwhelmingly approve of legislation to prevent hate violence. In fact, more than two-thirds (or 68%) support expanding hate crimes laws to include sexual orientation and gender identity and giving local law enforcement the tools and resources they need to investigate and prosecute these tragic acts of bigotry.

I am confident that you will champion the will of voters in your community and the majority of Americans, and bring our federal hate crime laws into the 21st Century, by ensuring that all of our citizens are protected against senseless hate violence.

I urge you to vote for this very important legislation.

Sincerely,

[Your name]
[Your address]