News Summary
In Spartanburg, South Carolina, community advocates are pushing for a local hate crimes ordinance to combat hate-motivated violence. The proposed legislation, inspired by civil rights leader Roy C. Henderson, aims to protect various marginalized identities. Local leaders are showing support, and discussions are underway to finalize the ordinance. As South Carolina is one of the few states lacking such laws, the initiative reflects a commitment to racial equity and a safer environment for all residents.
Spartanburg Initiative Pushes for Local Hate Crimes Ordinance Amid Growing Support
Spartanburg, South Carolina is on the verge of proposing its own hate crimes ordinance as community advocates call for legislation to address hate-motivated violence. South Carolina stands out as one of only two states in the U.S. lacking dedicated hate crimes laws, prompting local organizations like the Spartanburg Initiative for Racial Equity Now (SIREN) to take action.
The proposed ordinance is named after Roy C. Henderson, a revered civil rights leader and educator in the Spartanburg community. Its focus encompasses crimes driven by bias based on race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, and disability, aiming to provide legal protections for a spectrum of identities. City officials are currently reviewing the ordinance, with discussions and modifications welcome to align with community expectations.
Jason Spencer, the chairman of SIREN, highlights that the initiative reflects the values of the local community, indicating strong collective support for the proposed legislation. Alongside him, Tony Tanner, instrumental in drafting the proposal, notes the expanding receptiveness among city officials after initially slow momentum.
Support for the ordinance has gained traction among local leaders. City Council members Erica Brown and Meghan Smith have publicly endorsed the initiative, while Mayor Jerome Rice has tasked City Manager Chris Story to prepare discussions regarding the ordinance for future council meetings. Story is expected to present his insights in the upcoming weeks.
While recent statistics show a low volume of crimes categorized under hate provisions, advocates like Tanner emphasize that even a small number of incidents generate significant concern and fear within specific communities. Mayor Rice reiterated the aim of the ordinance: to project Spartanburg as an inclusive and welcoming environment for all residents and visitors.
The SIREN organization has been actively lobbying city council members, receiving endorsements from influential local groups like the League of Women Voters of Spartanburg County. During a city council meeting on August 25, SIREN Secretary Colby King elaborated on the importance of introducing a hate crimes ordinance that not only encompasses biases but also prohibits the distribution of hate literature.
This initiative aligns with the city’s broader commitment to racial equity, which was reinforced after the murder of George Floyd in 2020. As the ordinance progresses, it is expected to enhance existing measures; Spartanburg’s police department already tracks crimes with bias elements, laying a foundation for the implementation of the new legislation.
Councilwoman Meghan Smith underscored the significance of the ordinance, pointing out not only its moral implications but also its potential to boost economic prospects by enhancing the city’s image as a welcoming destination for diverse populations. There’s a concerted effort to expedite the ordinance’s passage before upcoming city council elections, as four council members face reelection. Smith has expressed a need to secure approval while current members are still in office, ensuring continuity in support for the initiative.
Despite the positive momentum, a timeline for the ordinance’s final approval remains uncertain. However, advocates express optimism as SIREN continues to engage with organizations and local leaders to garner further support. With community backing and connections to key policymakers on the rise, hopes remain high for the timely discussion and eventual adoption of the ordinance aimed at promoting safety and inclusion for all Spartanburg residents.
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Additional Resources
- GoUpstate: Spartanburg Looking to Join Cities That Have Enacted Hate Crimes Law
- WSPA: Group Calls on City of Spartanburg to Implement a Hate Crime Ordinance
- Post and Courier: Spartanburg City Hate Crimes Ordinance
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hate Crimes
- Google Search: Spartanburg Hate Crimes 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.
