Connecticut continues to be a national leader in combating hate crimes. Governor Ned Lamont recently signed Public Act 26-77 into law, which I was proud to vote for, strengthening the ability of law enforcement and attorneys to investigate, charge, and prosecute hate crimes.
Connecticut was among the first states to enact a hate crimes law in 1990. Since then, additional hate crime provisions have been added over several decades in response to evolving needs and protections. As a result, Connecticut’s hate crimes laws became scattered throughout numerous sections of the General Statutes, making them more difficult to navigate and apply.
The new law consolidates those statutes into a dedicated chapter of state law, making them easier for law enforcement, prosecutors, and the public to locate and understand. It also updates and standardizes terminology across the statutes to improve consistency and clarity.
The legislation takes effect on October 1, 2026.
In conjunction with the signing of the law, the Connecticut Hate Crimes Advisory Council launched of a new statewide public awareness campaign, Hate Is More Than a Word… It May Be a Crime.
Click below to watch the PSA and learn more about the campaign.
CT.GOV PSA: "Hate is more than a word. It may be a crime."
CT Open House Day on June 13
Mark your calendar for Connecticut Open House Day on Saturday, June 13! More than 200 attractions across the state, including museums, arts and cultural venues, historic sites, farms, and restaurants, will offer free or discounted admission and special promotions including in Windham.
The Windham Textile and History Museum welcomes visitors for free to learn about the state's textile industry and culture through numerous exhibit spaces. You can also check out the temporary exhibit, "Local Color 7: Circular Thinking."
This is a wonderful opportunity to discover new destinations and celebrate the rich experiences that make Connecticut such a great and fun place to explore.
Local musician and community leader Chris Beaudry joined Dennis O’Brien on “Let’s Talk About It” to highlight upcoming events in Windham.
They discussed the 41st annual WILI Willimantic Boombox Parade on July 4, followed by a celebration commemorating 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The family-friendly event at Shaboo Stage in Jillson Park will honor both our nation’s history and Willimantic’s community spirit.
Photo from Chris Beaudry's appearance on our show in January.
The nearly 100-member Windham Concert Band will perform patriotic favorites and concert band classics, joined by 2025 Grammy Award–winning Latin jazz pianist Zaccai Curtis and his quartet.
Attendees can also enjoy food trucks, historical reenactors, souvenirs, and more.
O’Brien and Beaudry also previewed Wednesday’s performance by Dr. David Foster & The Shaboo All-Stars at the Capitol Theater in Willimantic.
Click below to listen to the full conversation!
Chris Beaudry & Dennis O'Brien highlight the upcoming celebration on July 4
Poetry in the Park
Poetry in the Park returns in just a few weeks at Julia De Burgos Park in Willimantic. Sponsored by Willimantic’s own Curbstone Foundation, the series highlights nationally recognized poets and authors.
The first event will feature Margaret Gibson on Thursday, June 25 at 6:30 p.m. In case of inclement weather, the reading will take place at Windham Senior Center.”
All readings begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Poet’s Corner of Julia De Burgos Park every fourth Thursday from June through August, and at 6 p.m. in September. Readings are free. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. An open mic usually follows.
CLICK HERE for updates or to get more information.
