I used to think differently about this issue. But having seen one of my gay friends bleeding and bruised in the aftermath of being followed from a restaurant by a bunch of teens and assaulted in the parking lot, he admitted that that incident wasn't the first time that it had happened to him. Some people apparently think it's a lot of fun to beat up on him, simply because his mannerisms are different from ours. They slammed his head on the pavement and kicked him. And for what reason?!? Because he's gay?!? WTF?!? I want these criminals to go away for a long time -- but I don't have any problem seeing them go away longer for having targeted my friend. He didn't (and doesn't) deserve that kind of crap. Most of you have justified this kind of behavior, feeling safe in the knowledge that you're not as likely to be attacked as some of these people. But that's the point. They're targets. And this law sends a signal that continuing to target them means more jail time. I'm all for that.
We need to find other means to rid our society of public deviancy by helping the individuals, with their root problems...which starts with God and family in America. I'm for the IMMEDIATE PROSECUTION OF THE ACLU UNDER EXISTING RICO STATUTES TODAY! That's our best plan for America today, followed by registering and accounting for every single Muhammadan in America today, particularly males over the age of thirteen. But the borders and ports must be 100% secured first. There's my platform...lol Still love ya buddy, I know what you mean, got friends too...we just have to help people out of the gutter spiritually or we're done as a Free and Safe and Happy and Prosperous Light on the planet...they want to kill the last light of nations in the world...America.. (it's so obvious, isn't it?)
I suggest your friend get a CCW so he can protect himself. I will even offer training & target practice for him if he is in the LA area.
Instead of harsher punishments for crimes against gays, I suggest they learn self defense. Tell your friend to check out the Pink Pistols.....