It looks like the White House will have a ceremony for hate crimes legislation after all. Activists had speculated on whether or not the administration would highlight the legislation or let it slide quietly past since it's tied to the defense authorization bill.

A leaked copy of the official invitation landed in our tip box a few minutes ago:

You are cordially invited for remarks by President Barack Obama to commemorate the enactment of the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act on Wednesday, October 28th, at 4:45 pm in the White House. The commemoration will include a reception in partnership with the David Bohnett Foundation.

Please RSVP today, Monday, October 26th, no later than 8:00 pm Eastern. RSVP by completing the attached security clearance spreadsheet and return it to [redacted].

Once we have your confirmation, further instructions for the event will be emailed to you on Tuesday.

This invitation is non-transferable.

Thank you, and we look forward to your response and attendance.

Brian K. Bond
Deputy Director
White House Office of Public Engagement

I'm glad to see they'll recognize the moment as the watershed event that it is.