September 22, 2008

Message from Judy Shepard

Before you read Judy’s message, I want you to go to the YouTube page for my video, “Life, Interrupted,” to read a comment from someone called “RightWingRightMind” (which, as I write this, is at the very top of the comments):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cwji7g_VK0U

OK, thanks. I know that wasn’t easy. But sometimes we need to get shocked back into the reality of anti-gay hatred. Even I do, despite exposing myself to the worst of it every single day.

That said…

Ten Years Later

Dear Friends,

October 12 will mark the 10th year remembrance of our son Matthew’s murder. In the years since Dennis and I founded the Matthew Shepard Foundation in his memory, the Foundation has been at the forefront of the fight to replace hate with understanding, compassion and acceptance. During this period, the Foundation has:

- Helped the Matthew Shepard Act pass both the U.S. House and Senate

- Presented “The Legacy of Matthew Shepard” to over 1 million people

- Distributed 5,000 copies of our ‘Small Bear Big Dreams’ education program free of charge

- Given out 200,000+ purple ‘Erase Hate’ wristbands

- Led 2000+ high school and college students in discussions about hate

- Engaged 5000+ people in the ‘Campaign to Erase Hate’

None of these things would have been possible without you, and I want to thank you for your support over the last decade. Each of us is a vehicle for change, and you have shown your commitment to making a difference.

Numerous 10 year remembrance events are planned throughout the country to honor Matthew’s memory. A list of events is available here on our website. Click Here to visit it now. I hope you will be able to attend one or more of them.

This fight for equality is alive and well. I want to thank you for your continued support.

Thank you,

Judy Shepard
Executive Director