Attorney General Mike DeWine, as residents in Ohio we are asking you to publicly denounce and prosecute hate crimes against marginalized, persecuted, and vulnerable populations. Acts of intimidation and physical violence based on religion, race, or national origin fly in the face of the First Amendment rights guaranteed to all Americans. Acts of violence against vulnerable people 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, religion, or national origin.

People should not have to feel fearful walking in streets, parking lots, grocery stores, schools, places of worship, nor in other places where acts of intimidation and violence have recently taken place. We would like you to make a public commitment to denounce and prosecute such crimes as the highest ranking law enforcement official in the State of Ohio. This will help to restore a sense of order and safety for those whose religion or race have made them targets for acts of malice and/or violence. The signatures on this Petition reflects the concerns and hopes that you will use the powers of your office to promote the safety of all people in Ohio -- regardless of their race, religion, or national origin.