Hate Crimes Against Gays Up

By Eyewitness News' Lucy Yang

(New York-WABC, June 19, 2005)

The number of anti-gay hate crimes in the city of New York has taken a significant jump. Authorities say it has risen 32 percent. It's an alarming statistic, especially with other types of hate crimes on the decline. Eyewitness News reporter Lucy Yang's in midtown Manhattan with the details.
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Today launches Gay Pride Week here in New York, but there is nothing to celebrate when it comes to their safety. Instead of the city becoming more tolerant, crime statistics show more gays are falling victim to bias attacks.
Police confirm hate crimes against gays are on the rise, up 32 percent this year over last year. This while bias crimes against other groups are either holding steady or actually declining.
Rally Participant: "I think at this time is ridiculous. If so much prejudice in city, and we need to reach out and love each other."
That is what 35-year-old Nelson Torres prayed for after a group of teens savagely beat him in March, a vicious anti-gay assault which left him shaking.
As for why such attacks are increasing, some believe the recent controversy over same-sex marriages may be a lightning rod.
One Democratic councilwoman is pointing her finger at politics.
Margarita Lopez, (D) New York City Councilmemeber: "The attack was brutal from the President, George Walker Bush, to every republican running for office, every initiative put forth.." Lucy Yang, Eyewitness News: "You blame this on Republicans?" Lopez: "I think it is connected."
Many believe more education is needed.
Rally Participant: "It really boils down to ignorance. I think people act out on fear. And they are not necessarily educated."
Many folks here told me that in a city this diverse, they do not walk in fear but they are very much aware of their surroundings.

Ok so this isn't New York, but if it can happen there it sure can happen here just as easily. In fact here in Kansas probably happens more often and more under reported. It's not as "vogue" to be open gay or lesbian here. Transgender? I know they are out there, but they are not seen. I would be told that I am in the wrong place because I am open about who I am, but no this is where I need to be at this time. I'm here, I'm Queer, Get used to it!!!