LANSING — State Rep. Abdullah Hammoud (D-Dearborn) has introduced a resolution condemning hate crimes and any other form of bias, discrimination, or other action targeting people based on race, religion, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. The resolution also urges Congress to investigate and prosecute acts of discrimination and violence.

House Resolution 99 is in response to the alarming and disturbing increase of hate crimes and threats against religious, racial, and ethnic minorities, and LGBTQ communities in America. The resolution was drafted with the assistance and support of eMgage, formerly known as EMERGE.

“Discrimination and bigotry have no place in the United States of America,” Hammoud said. “Hate crimes are abhorrent, and I urge Congress and the state and federal government to take action to investigate and prosecute these cowardly acts.”

HR 99 also calls on the Department of Justice, FBI and federal law enforcement officials to increase investigatory efforts and hold perpetrators accountable. Additionally, the resolution encourages the presidential administration to offer victim assistance, grant opportunities and other forms of federal assistance that may be available to enhance security measures and improve preparedness for religious institutions, places of worship and other institutions that have been targeted across the country.