We are about halfway through LGBTQIA+ History Month. It’s time for yet another history lesson. There is a personal note at the end, explaining why this particular story is important to me. It should also be noted that while good came from this, what happened was inexcusable and heinous. The information could be potentially unsettling for anyone who has suffered violence due to their sexuality.
It’s been over 20 years since Matthew Shepard (Dec 1, 1976 – Oct 12, 1998) was brutally beaten and left to die, and his case still haunts us. Shepard, a gay college student, was targeted because of his sexuality and brutally murdered in October 1998. His death sparked outrage and launched a national conversation about hate crimes against the LGBTQIA+ community. Shepard’s story is one that must be remembered, and his case is a reminder of the violence and hatred that members of the LGBTQIA+ community continue to face. Let’s take a moment to remember Matthew Shepard and all those who have been victims of hate crimes.
Matthew Sheppard was a young man who was brutally murdered in 1998. Matthew Sheppard was just 21 years old when he was killed. He was a student at the University of Wyoming and was out with friends at a bar when he met his attacker, Aaron McKinney. McKinney and his accomplice, Russell Henderson, beat Sheppard and left him for dead. Sheppard died of his injuries a few days later.
Matthew Sheppard’s death was a tragedy. He was an innocent young man who was taken from us far too soon. His death also started a meaningful conversation about hate crimes and the need for LGBTQIA+ protections. We honor his memory by continuing to fight for justice and equality for all.
In the aftermath of Matthew’s death, his mother, Judy Sheppard, became an outspoken advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights. Judy’s work helped to pass hate crime legislation at the state and federal levels, and she became a powerful voice in the fight for equality. Today, Matthew’s legacy lives on through the work of his mother and others who continue to fight for justice and equality.
I write this today in honor of his memory. This past October 12th marked 24 years since the death of Matthew. His story has touched me and changed me forever. I remember seeing the story on TV as a child and then having the opportunity to work on a production of The Laramie Project while I was in high school. I owe a lot to Matthew and his story. I was struggling with my own sexuality when I was working on the play, and his story taught me to have the courage to live my life to the fullest. Why? Because we owe it to the people who died and fought just because of who they were. Matthew’s death gave many people a reason to fight for the rights of LGBTQIA+ people and had hate crimes legislation passed.
To those who are afraid to come out, or fear they will not be accepted: Please know there are people in your corner. Please reach out to the Regnbue Ætt here at Awaken the North and we will be more than happy to get you to the resources you need in your area. You can reach us on all of the main social media outlets. You are loved and you are seen.
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