SPARTANBURG, S.C. (WSPA) - A local group in Spartanburg is urging the city to pass a hate crime ordinance, as South Carolina remains one of two states without a state-level hate crime law.

The Spartanburg Initiative for Racial Equity, known as SIREN, has called on the city council to consider adopting a hate crime ordinance to enhance local protections against hate crimes. Despite existing federal laws, SIREN argues that additional local measures are necessary to ensure safety and inclusivity within the city.

"This pertains to their residents. This is making their city feel safer. It's also telling them that, hey, you can live in the city and be who you are and be safe," said Tony Tanner of SIREN.

According to the FBI Crime Data Explorer, the Spartanburg Police Department reported five

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