“Everyone in our city should feel safe”

LAKE CITY, SC (WPDE) — During Tuesday's city council meeting, Lake City passed an anti-hate crimes ordinance.

Lake City Mayor Yamekia Robinson and City Council members unanimously passed the ordinance on second reading.

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Under the new ordinance, a person will be charged with a separate offense if there is an intent to intimidate one or more persons based on the other person or persons' perceived race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical/mental disability, or national origin. Accused persons face a fine of up to $500 or imprisonment for up to 30 days.

“I am pleased that this new ordinance has been passed,” said Mayor Robinson. “South Carolina is one of only two states that has not passed a hate crimes law. If South Carolina communities pass a hate crimes ordinance, it will make it clear to members of the South Carolina Senate that it is imperative that we pass this law in our state.”

The cities of Columbia, Florence and Cayce are some of the other municipalities in the state that have adopted a hate crimes ordinance. However, there is no state hate crimes law.

“We want everyone to know that hate will not be tolerated in Lake City,” said Mayor Robinson. “We welcome everyone to Lake City and hope they make our great city their home. With this important step to pass this hate crime ordinance, we want to ensure that everyone in our city feels safe and protected from hate crimes.”