We are writing to request that Attorney General Mike DeWine make a public commitment to follow through with the prosecution of hate crimes against Muslims and people of color. Acts of intimidation and physical violence based on religion fly in the face of the First Amendment rights guaranteed to all Americans. Acts of violence against people based on race harken back to the darkest chapters of American history when people had to fear for their safety simply because of the color of their skin.

We believe that people should not have to feel fearful walking in streets, in parking lots, in grocery stores or in any of the other place where acts of intimidation and violence have recently taken place. We are requesting that the Ohio Department of Justice make a public commitment to prosecute such crimes in order to restore a sense of order and safety for those whose religion or race have made them targets for cowardly acts of malice and / or violence.

We are grateful for the work you have done to uphold the laws of this great state and nation and we are hopeful that you will use the powers of your office to promote the safety of all people in Ohio, regardless of race and religion.