“D.C. Must Ban Gay and Trans Panic Defense” – In an Opinion Editorial published in the Washington Blade, Councilmember Pinto addressed the need to ban the panic defense legal strategy in a court of law and announced that the Judiciary and Public Safety Committee would move legislation to achieve this before the end of the year. For many years, the panic defense legal strategy has unfairly protected those who attack the LGBTQIA+ community members due to a claimed fear of the victim’s sexual identity or orientation.
“The panic defense must be banned and removed from the legal toolkit for bigots, harassers, and abusers. It is the right thing to do for the victims, past and present, their families, and our broader community. Moreover, it will send a clear message to all that this type of hate will not be tolerated by our society and will not be accepted by a court of law,” wrote Councilmember Pinto. Councilmember Pinto will work closely with her Council colleagues to ensure that this legislation is passed to honor the memories of Bella Evangelista, Tony Hunter, and many others who have died or have been affected by malicious acts of trans and homophobic violence. Councilmember Pinto will also support efforts “that provide opportunities for community engagement, anti-bias training and education, and other efforts that will help us to change the culture that perpetuates feelings of trans and homophobia.” To read the full Opinion Editorial, click here.