Lucy McBath, Mother of Slain Teenager Jordan Davis, Applauds Introduction of New Legislation to Help Fight Hate Crimes

WASHINGTON – Lucy McBath, faith and outreach leader for Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America and Everytown for Gun Safety, today released the following statement applauding the introduction of new legislation in Congress by Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) that would help fight hate crimes in America, provide support for victims of hate violence and grow the research on the intersection of hate crime and gun crime.

Approximately 8,000 hate crimes per year involve guns.

STATEMENT FROM LUCY MCBATH, FAITH AND OUTREACH LEADER FOR EVERYTOWN FOR GUN SAFETY AND MOMS DEMAND ACTION FOR GUN SENSE IN AMERICA:

“As we saw in Orlando, and as we continue to see in shootings targeting marginalized communities, guns and hate can be a deadly mix. That is why we support legislation that helps our communities combat hate crimes. Senator Blumenthal’s bill will help build knowledge for the law enforcement and public health communities on the prevalence and patterns of hate crimes involving firearms – in turn helping to improve how our cities and states respond to these crimes. After having my son shot and killed by a man filled with hate, I understand the importance of common-sense legislation that works to prevent senseless tragedies.”