Spokane: Council Member Dillon Testifies in Support of Senate Bill 5917
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~ Spokane City Council Member Paul Dillon testified in support of Senate Bill 5917 on Thursday, February 15. The bill aims to expand the hate crimes statute to include public property and was met with enthusiasm from Dillon and other city officials.

Dillon, who was joined by Legislative Assistant Ginny Ramos, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to speak in favor of the bill. He highlighted the increase in hate crimes across the nation and how it has affected Eastern Washington. However, he remained optimistic that love will ultimately prevail.

The council member emphasized the importance of this legislation for the city, stating that it is a top priority. He also referenced Spokane's motto, "In Spokane, we all belong," and how this bill aligns with it.

The need for this bill was further emphasized by incidents in 2023 when Spokane approved one of its first neighborhood rainbow crosswalks in The Perry District. The crosswalk, which was meant to show support for LGBTQ+ communities after years of advocacy, has been repeatedly vandalized. This includes vandalism at the Odyssey Youth Center, which serves LGBTQ+ youth. Additionally, Dillon's Pride flag at his home and those of his neighbors have been stolen and destroyed multiple times. Most recently, a second crosswalk at Spokane Falls Boulevard and Wall was defaced with paint.

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Dillon pointed out that these incidents are not isolated and that certain neighborhoods have been targeted due to their emphasis on safety and inclusion. He also expressed shock at learning that bias-driven defacement of public property is not considered a hate crime due to a gap in Washington State law.

The council member credited Senator Billig's swift response to the call for action and collaboration with the city in finding a solution. With this new legislation, Spokane hopes to send a strong message against hate crimes and promote inclusivity within its communities.

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