The US House of Representatives, on April 29, 2009, passed the Federal Hate Crimes Legislation. The bill passed by a vote of 249 to 175, and has moved to the US Senate. Many conservative-leaning organizations refer to this legislation as the "Thought Crimes" Legislation.

By Sue Russell

Sitting at the rear of the Convention Center, I surveyed the crowd of 1500 exuberant New Yorkers. I sat near the back wondering if I could possibly blend into the crowd of same-sex couples, many of whom were holding hands and chatting amiably.