News Summary
The Spartanburg City Council has introduced legislation aimed at combating hate crimes by passing the first reading of a hate crime ordinance. This ordinance includes a misdemeanor charge for hate intimidation based on perceived identity characteristics. The move aligns Spartanburg with other municipalities in South Carolina addressing hate crimes in the absence of a statewide law. Public discussions showcased diverse opinions, with supporters advocating for the protection of vulnerable communities and opponents raising concerns about free speech implications.
Spartanburg City Council has taken a significant step towards combatting hate crimes by passing the first reading of a hate crime ordinance on September 22, 2025. This ordinance introduces a new misdemeanor charge of hate intimidation for crimes motivated by the victim’s perceived identity, including attributes such as ethnicity, race, color, creed, national origin, religion, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or disability.
The council’s decision aligns Spartanburg with 22 other municipalities in South Carolina that have enacted similar legislation aimed at addressing hate crimes. This marks a growing trend in the state where local governments are taking proactive measures in the absence of a statewide hate crime law.
During the council meeting, 25 individuals participated in the debate surrounding the ordinance, including local residents and state representatives. Among the speakers, fifteen voiced their support for the ordinance, highlighting its importance for the protection of vulnerable communities. In contrast, ten speakers expressed their opposition, raising concerns about the implications of the proposed law.
Supporters of the ordinance, including members of the Spartanburg Initiative for Racial Equity Now (SIREN), emphasized the necessity of the legislation to safeguard marginalized groups within the community. They argue that the ordinance could serve as a deterrent for potential hate crimes, contributing to a safer environment for all residents.
Under this ordinance, individuals found guilty of hate intimidation may face additional penalties, including an extra $500 fine and/or up to 30 days in jail. These charges would apply alongside penalties for the underlying crimes. Judges will have the discretion to implement these punishments concurrently or opt to suspend them in favor of alternative measures such as community service, education, or counseling.
Conversely, opponents of the ordinance, including Republican representatives, contended that it infringes upon First Amendment rights and creates a divisive legal framework. Critics have likened the ordinance’s provisions to those seen in authoritarian regimes, arguing that it poses a threat to free speech. There are also concerns regarding the lack of a catch-all protection for all discriminatory biases within the ordinance, raising questions about which identities are afforded protection.
The ordinance permits individuals to face both the penalties associated with the underlying crime and a hate intimidation charge if the act is motivated by bias. For instance, if a person vandalizes property based on bias, they could incur additional charges under this new ordinance.
The discussions surrounding the hate crime ordinance are part of a larger statewide dialogue regarding the need for comprehensive hate crime laws in South Carolina. Currently, the state does not have a uniform law addressing hate crimes, prompting local municipalities to take matters into their own hands.
To become law, the hate crime ordinance requires a second vote by the Spartanburg City Council. Should it pass the final vote, it will establish a framework for addressing and penalizing hate crimes within the city, thereby reinforcing Spartanburg’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and protecting all its residents.
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Additional Resources
- Goupstate
- Post and Courier
- WSPA
- Wikipedia: Hate Crime
- Fox Carolina
- Google Search: Spartanburg Hate Crime Ordinance
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
