Marriage Equality and DOMA States – Is There a Difference in the Rate of Anti-Gay Hate Crime?

• In Event: Poster Session

Abstract

The social movement in support of marriage equality has made significant progress particularly over the last 5 years in the United States. The question becomes whether these laws indicate a growing tolerance for same-sex marriages or do they serve as a trigger for hate crimes motivated by sexual orientation bias. This exploratory study investigates the correlation between marriage equality states and states with DOMA laws and their respective rates of antigay hate crime. Findings are discussed.

Author

• Rhiannon L. Andrews, Bridgewater State University