The incident that happened in Hamrun is a reminder of the fact that being part of a minority continues to pose certain risks. That being gay or lesbian or part of an ethnic minority or sometimes just being a woman can put one at risk of being assaulted, violated and discriminated against. No one should become a target because of their identity and when this basic right is threatened then measures should be in place to ensure that justice is done. Society’s message should be unequivocal leaving no room for doubt.

For this reason we urge the Minister for Justice to move forward with extending the scope of the hate crime legislation to include other grounds. While this may not be enough to prevent other incidents in the future it shows those of us who could be victims of such hate crime that justice and the law are on our side.

Any legal amendment needs to be backed by education and awareness raising towards all members of society, but especially children and young people who are both potential victims and at times perpetrators of hate crime. A respect for diversity is an important value in any democracy and our families, educators and educational institutions are important contributors towards building a culture of respect that celebrates diversity in all its forms.

This call for legal reform is being proposed and supported by:

Aditus
AD Malta –Green Youth
Drachma
Drachma Parents Group
Graffitti
Integra Foundation
LGBT Labour
The Malta Gay Rights Movement
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