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The reason "hate" crimes are being singled out for additional legal consideration is because of the fear perpetrated on other members of the community who share similar circumstances as the victim (race, religion etc.). These people in essence become victims, too. The level of the crime needs to be considered as part of the equation. Certainly a murder is a grievous crime, no matter what the reason behind it. But burning a cross on someones lawn is not simple vandalism. Hate crimes cannot be lumped into one simple category, and should not be addressed by sweeping legislation. Hate, in itself, while anti-social is not a crime.
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