Kristen Clarke, Hate Crimes, District of Columbia 2024

Anti-LGBTQI+ Violence and Hate Continue to Plague Communities, Say Stakeholders

In a shocking display of disregard for human life, LGBTQI+ rights stakeholders have come together to condemn the ongoing anti-LGBTQI+ violence and hate that plagues communities across the nation.

Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and the division’s LGBTQI+ Working Group convened the inaugural quarterly meeting of LGBTQI+ Rights Community Stakeholders at the Justice Department, where department leadership, including representatives from the Civil Rights Division, FBI, Office of Justice Programs, and Office on Violence Against Women, heard from attending organizations on an array of topics, including anti-LGBTQI+ violence and hate, legislation targeting the LGBTQI+ community, Title VI and grant funding concerns specific to the LGBTQI+ community, and the need to increase intersex awareness.

Representatives from other government agencies, including the Departments of Health and Human Services, Education, Energy, and Housing and Urban Development, were also in attendance at the meeting.

The Justice Department’s commitment to protecting LGBTQI+ rights is clear, as seen in the recent work on LGBTQI+ rights issues, including statements of interest and lawsuits challenging state bans on gender-affirming health care for transgender minors in Oklahoma, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Alabama.

The department has also prosecuted hate crimes based on LGBTQI+ status, supported organizations serving LGBTQI+ victims and survivors, and educated the public about threats facing the LGBTQI+ community, including by hosting a virtual, nationwide community meeting addressing practical steps for protecting LGBTQI+ communities from hate-motivated attacks and threats of violence.

In a statement, Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke emphasized the importance of engaging with organizations and stakeholders on issues affecting the LGBTQI+ community, saying, ‘This week’s meeting reinforces the Justice Department’s commitment to taking an all-of-department approach to protecting LGBTQI+ rights.’

As the fight for LGBTQI+ rights continues, stakeholders remain committed to advocating for the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

The Justice Department’s fact sheet, released earlier in June in honor of Pride Month, summarizes the department’s efforts to protect LGBTQI+ rights and promote awareness about the threats facing the community.

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