PHOTOS: 300 Show Up to Attend Brian Sims’ Rally for Gay-Bashing Victims

"There are some in Harrisburg who object to restoring sexual orientation and gender identity protections to the hate-crime law. But they haven't been calling for repeal of the law's remaining protections, for victims targeted because of their race, color, religion or national origin -- they know they would take a political hit for that. "

"Unfortunately, they think there's no political penalty or constituent outrage to face for leaving out women, LGBT people, or people targeted because of their ancestry or mental or physical disability. Pennsylvanians who don't like this injustice need to let their state representative and senator know now."

Caryn Kunkle, friend and spokesperson for the two victims: "I am thankful that many legislators are working to restore Pennsylvania’s inclusive hate crime law. This is important to me not only because of my gay friends who were brutally attacked, but also because I have struggled my entire life to protect my autistic younger brother. It is never OK to hurt someone because of who they are."

Kunkle speaks.

Crowd

Brian Sims stands next to Caryn Kunkle.

Councilman Jim Kenney: "True equality will never be achieved through government action alone. Transphobia and homophobia have always been deeply embedded in American culture. As we were brutally reminded two weeks ago, our children are growing up in a country where LGBTQ people are still seen as an 'other' and somehow different from themselves – victories will remain hollow until this changes."

First Deputy Commissioner Richard Ross Jr.

Rudy Flesher, Beth Wilson Rudd, and Matt Kurilla

Representative from GALAEI, who's Executive Director Elicia Gonzales told the crowd that, ""The outpouring of both outrage and support surrounding this heinous act has been nothing short of heart-warming. The fact that this issue moved hate crimes legislation into the foreground must not be taken lightly. We must also bring to light the other hate crimes that have gone unpunished, and sometimes, unnoticed. Let us use this momentum to continue to seek justice for Nizah Morris, Kyra Cordova, and Diamond Williams."

Sharron Cooks, community organizer and consultant at Making Our Lives Easier LLC, stand next to William Way Executive Director Chris Bartlett,

Caryn Kunkle