FBI Intelligence Capacities Must Be Redoubled to Ensure Safety of San Francisco Resident Terry…
“I urge US federal agencies to act swiftly and decisively in investigating the crimes against Mr. Williams,” says Quianna Canada
As a concerned human rights defender, I call upon the United States federal agencies to utilise their full capacities to investigate the alarming hate crimes perpetrated against San Francisco resident, Terry Williams.
Mr. Williams, a respected dog-walker and member of the San Francisco community, has been subjected to a string of hate-motivated attacks that have caused profound emotional and physical distress. Its worth mentioning here that the series of incidents against Mr. Williams, which date back to 2021, are not merely an affront to his right to be treated humanely, but also a direct attack on the core values of diversity, inclusivity, and justice.
Hate crimes undermine the safety and dignity of not only the victim but also the broader community. Hate crimes also have a far-reaching impact, instilling fear and division within a community and eroding the sense of security that every American deserves.
It was deeply unsettling to learn that Mr. Williams’ San Francisco home in Alamo Square Park, a family residence for over five decades, was further destroyed in a fire. Mr. Williams, who has faced increased public attention in recent weeks due to being racially profiled, suspects that the fire may have been an act of arson linked to the “hate packages” he previously received.
Failed Hate Crime Legislation in the United States
According to news reports, the Williams family made a formal complaint with law enforcement. After launching the complaint, the incidents increased. Building on the United States Justice Department’s National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS), acts such as arson can be classified as a hate crime if they are attached to a discriminatory message, and police investigators identify the incident as a hate crime.
Hate crimes against Black Americans have been a persistent problem in the United States. Due to violent racial animus against communities of colour, the House of Representatives introduced the Leading Against White Supremacy Act of 2023, Condemning All Forms of Hate, Stop Hate Crimes Act of 2023 and the Hate Crimes Commission Act of 2023, all of which has either been stalled in its introductory phase or has not made it pass the Senate.
The H.R.61 bill would expand federal hate crime offences to include acts motivated by white supremacy. The H.Res.929 would condemn all forms of discrimination. It would also express support for policies to prevent and respond to hate crimes, including education and training on prevention and response. If H.R.1091 was passed, it would lower the statutory burden of proof for showing intent with respect to a federal hate crime offence.
While the Hate Crimes Commission Act of 2023 offer bias prevention efforts and responses to hate crimes, through coordination with non-profit organizations, local education agencies, and government entities, Black Americans do not feel this initiative is enough. For example, Black American documentarians and podcasters, like Phillip Scott, have called for legislation that effectively addresses racial animus.
The Committee for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
The Committee for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination recently found a significant increase of hate crimes against people of African descent. It also expressed concerned for reports that showed an increase in racially or ethnically motivated activities promoted by violent groups, including white supremacist organisations. In this context, the Committee expressed ongoing concern that the United States was not taking sufficient action to condemn efforts to justify or promote racial hatred and discrimination in all its forms
The Williams incident, as well as others, further underscore the pressing necessity for a comprehensive crime bill aimed at safeguarding Black Americans, preventing such acts of racialised violence, and ensuring accountability for those responsible.
Due Diligence
For American families, the Federal Bureau Investigation has an obligation to conduct an investigation. Such investigations must be fulfilled in good faith and with due diligence. Due diligence means that the investigation must be undertaken using all available legal means (e.g., intelligence capacities) which take into account all the facts.
The role of federal agencies, like the Department of Justice (DOJ), in addressing hate crimes is also crucial. It possesses the expertise, resources, and jurisdiction necessary to thoroughly investigate the crimes against Mr. Williams — to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice — and to work towards preventing such incidents in the future. On this account, it is incumbent upon the United States Government to harness its formidable intelligence resources to keep the Williams’ family safe.
I urge these agencies to act swiftly and decisively in investigating the crimes against Mr. Williams. A thorough federal investigation will not only help in delivering justice to Mr. Williams but also serve as a powerful deterrent against hate crimes nationwide. It is imperative that federal agencies also stand united against hatred and discrimination, ensuring that the United States remains a place where all persons can live free from fear and prejudice.
In these trying times, let us reaffirm our commitment to justice, equality, and the protection of every citizen’s rights. Federal intervention in this case will be a significant step towards healing and reaffirming our collective commitment to a just and inclusive society.