Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke delivered remarks at the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office’s Hate Crimes Summit on June 7, 2024. Clarke began by expressing gratitude to Attorney General Peter Neronha for his office's commitment to civil rights and public safety in Rhode Island.
Clarke highlighted the historical context of the U.S. Department of Justice's mission, recalling its origins in countering violence from white supremacist organizations such as the Ku Klux Klan. She emphasized the continued relevance of this mission today, especially on the anniversary of James Byrd Jr.'s murder—a crime driven by racial hatred.
In her address, Clarke underscored the importance of Pride Month and acknowledged ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQI+ communities. She reaffirmed the Civil Rights Division's dedication to enforcing hate crime laws vigorously, citing recent prosecutions under the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act.
Clarke provided several examples of successful prosecutions against perpetrators of hate crimes targeting various communities, including cases involving mass shootings and attacks motivated by racial, religious, or gender identity biases. She stressed that these prosecutions send a clear message that hate crimes will not be tolerated.
The Assistant Attorney General also discussed broader efforts beyond criminal prosecution, such as the United Against Hate initiative aimed at preventing hate crimes through community outreach and engagement. She highlighted collaborations with local U.S. Attorneys’ Offices to build trust and strengthen coordination among community groups and law enforcement.
Further illustrating her department's commitment to justice, Clarke mentioned efforts in constitutional policing, voting rights protection, and combating redlining. She detailed ongoing investigations into police misconduct and actions taken to ensure fair voting practices and equal access to credit for marginalized communities.
Concluding her remarks, Clarke invoked civil rights leader John Lewis's words on freedom as an ongoing act requiring continuous effort from each generation. She pledged continued support from the Department of Justice in creating a more just society.
###