Signing the Hate Crimes Prevention Act

From Episcopal Cafe:

The Rt. Rev. Bruce Caldwell, Bishop of Wyoming, long time supporter of federal hate crimes legislation will be present when President Barack Obama signs the Matthew Shepard/James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act into law.

"I am honored to represent all the Episcopalians who have worked for this legislation," Caldwell said.

Matthew Shepard was a member of the Episcopal Church, serving as an acolyte at St. Mark's Church in Casper, WY before attending the University of Wyoming in Laramie where his life was cut short in a brutal hate crime.

"I go to this celebration of the signing of the Matthew Shepard/James Byrd, Jr Act remembering Matthew and all those hurt by hate," Caldwell said. "I am hopeful this legislation will move us as a country to a place of reconciliation, peace and love toward one another." He also commented on the fact, that although Wyoming is often viewed as conservative state, "I have felt personally supported and encouraged to work on issues of inclusion by Wyoming Episcopalians."

Video of Bruce at General Convention speaking about full inclusion is here