Democratic Senate Challenger; member of State Senate
Voted YES on apology for wrongs of Alabama slavery
Figures voted Yes on SJR 54 (Resolution Passed Senate, 22-7): Expressing profound regret for
Alabama's role in slavery and apology for wrongs of slavery; and expressing intent that this resolution shall not be used in, or be basis of, any type of litigation.
Source: State voting records from vote-smart.org
Apr 24, 2007
Include victim's sexual orientation in hate crimes law
Legislation expanding Alabama's hate crimes law to include a victim's sexual orientation narrowly won approval from a state Senate committee Wednesday after a lively discussion about whether gays should be covered.
[One opponent] said he supports
having extra punishment for a crime committed because of something the victim can't change, such as their race or a physical or mental defect, but he said sexual orientation should not be included. "Your sexual orientation is a choice,
and that can be changed," he said.
"I'm not sure it's just a choice by the person," said Senator Vivian Davis Figures.
Voting for the bill were Senators Little,
Ross, Smitherman, Sanders and Figures, all Democrats. Voting against it were Senators Mitchell and Bedford, both Democrats, and Byrne, a Republican.
Source: Associated Press: "Expanding hate crimes law"
Feb 9, 2006
