Oklahoman's
For Equality Outraged Over Tulsa Hate Crime
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Tuesday, October 20th, 2009
Oklahomans for Equality is outraged at what appears to be a hate crime that occurred
at 13th and Rockford
on Sunday evening, October 18, 2009. Brandon Patrick was walking down the
sidewalk when he was harassed and eventually assaulted by a man and two women.
He fought back against his attackers and was able to escape. A butcher knife
was used in the attack and inflicted injuries that required stitches and
treatment at an emergency room.
Brandon Patrick said, "People should know that when you attack gays, we
will fight back." Oklahomans for Equality is relieved that Brandon was able to elude his
attackers and should recover from his injuries. However, we recommend
that our community be vigilant and alert to the possibility that this may not
be an isolated incident.
Oklahomans for Equality has been in contact with our Tulsa City
Councilman for District 4 Eric Gomez and he assures us he will meet with the
Chief of Police and encourage them to make the investigation a priority. Gomez
said, "This kind of violence is appalling and horrific when you
realize Brandon
was targeted simply because of his sexual orientation. It is
unacceptable and everyone should be safe to walk the in
their own neighborhood."
Oklahoma
does not have a hate crimes statute that prosecutes acts of violence motivated
by someone's perceived sexual orientation and gender identity. We
encourage you to contact your legislators and elected officials and demand that
we have punishment that fits the crime.
On October 8, 2009 the U.S. House voted to pass the conference report of the
FY 2010 Defense of Authorization bill, with the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd,
Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act
included, by a vote of 281 to 146. A Senate vote
on the conference report is expected shortly, and the bill will then be sent to
President Obama for his signature.
 Photos Of patrick after attack.
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