In the article entitled “Hate Crimes Bill Moves to Senate” (5/5/09), we mistakenly stated that the American Psychiatric Association’s actual definition of “sexual orientation” includes paraphilias. The APA’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) classifies “sexual orientation” as heterosexual, homosexual, and bi-sexual. The 547 mental disorders called “paraphilias” specifically involve non-human objects, physical pain, or unwilling partners as in pedophilia. IFI apologizes for the error.

IFI remains strongly opposed to this “Hate Crimes” legislation. S. 909 is dangerous, unconstitutional and a threat to our freedoms.

S. 909 is unconstitutional, as it violates the Fourteenth Amendment which guarantees “equal protection of the laws,” not special protection for some.

Moreover, “hate crimes” legislation lays the legal foundation and framework for investigating, prosecuting and persecuting pastors, business owners, and anyone else whose actions reflect their faith.

Illinois’ U.S. Senators Dick Durbin, Roland Burris along with 39 other senators have co-sponsored S. 909.