Washington, DC—Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid released the following statement this evening upon the passage of the hate crimes amendment to the Department of Defense Authorization bill:
 
“The Senate made a strong statement this evening that hate crimes have no place in America.  I am pleased to see the Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act added as an amendment to the Department of Defense Authorization bill.  This is a victory for all Americans – particularly those like Judy Shepard who has endured what no mother should ever have to.
 
“Just this week, I had the opportunity to again meet with Judy and her story continues to serve as a powerful reminder of why we needed to pass this amendment.  It is my hope that this legislation will ensure that no family has to share that experience again.”