MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WPMI) - A civil rights group stormed the steps of the Alabama State Capitol urging lawmakers to make a change to state hate crime laws.
Members and supporters of the LBGT communities gathered in honor of the 15th annual 'vigil for Victims of Hate and Violence." People in attendance wanted Alabama lawmakers to add sexual orientation and identity to state hate crime legislation.
"Gay people, sexual minorities are some of the most targeted individuals for bullying and hate, and crimes," Vigil chairperson Amy Applewhite said, "We just ask to be recognized and give us some protection and status."
The annual vigil is held in honor of Billy Jack Gaither, a gay man who was brutally murdered in 1999.
