January 30, 2019

Senator Rodric Bray

Indiana State Senate
200 W. Washington Street
Indianapolis, IN 46204-2785

Dear Senator Bray,

As leaders and representatives of the Bloomington and Monroe County community, we write in support of the State’s
passage of strong hate crime legislation that allows judges to increase sentencing when it has been determined that a
crime has been motivated by bias against a victim’s characteristics that include, but are not limited to, their race,
religion, color, sex, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, housing status or status as a
veteran.

Diversity among and inclusion of all residents, visitors, and businesses is a priority in our community. Both Monroe
County and Bloomington Municipal Code provide for the collection of data and issuance of reports on the issuance of
hate crimes. The success and sustainability of Bloomington, Monroe County, and the surrounding cities and towns
depend upon promoting a secure, safe, inclusive and equitable environment for all residents and visitors, free of the fear
associated with hatefully motivated speech, actions, and/or crimes. Being one of only five states in the nation without
such legislation diminishes the reputation of the State of Indiana, along with the reputation of each community within it.
On top of the moral imperative for the State to adopt such legal protection, its absence diminishes Indiana’s ability to
attract and retain major employers and the most qualified workforce, thereby limiting the State’s competitive potential.
Statewide legislation addressing hate crimes is fundamental to Indiana’s identity as a welcoming and safe environment
for all.

We, the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce, Mayor of the City of Bloomington, Common Council of the City of
Bloomington, City Clerk of the City of Bloomington, the Board of Commissioners of Monroe County, and President of
Monroe County Council, join the other chambers, communities, businesses, not-for-profits, educational institutions, and
faith communities across Indiana calling for this needed change.

We stand with Governor Holcomb when he says, “No law can stop evil, but we should be clear that our State stands with
the victims and their voices will not be silenced. For that reason, it is my intent that Indiana be 1 of 46 states with hate
crimes legislation— not 1 of 5 states without it.” We join him in calling on the Indiana General Assembly to enact hate
crimes legislation for the good of all -- including those who live and work in, and visit Indiana -- but more broadly in the
name of human dignity everywhere.

Sincerely,

Erin Predmore Julie Thomas

President and CEO President
The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce Monroe County Commissioners

John Hamilton Nicole Bolden

Mayor Clerk
City of Bloomington City of Bloomington

Dave Rollo Shelli Yoder

President President
Bloomington City Council Monroe County Council