Matthew’s parents, Judy and Dennis, lobbied hard for the Matthew Shepard & James Byrd Jr Hate Crimes Prevention Act. They knew it wouldn't bring their son back, but they wanted other LGBT people to have that protection and justice. May their example inspire us all in these times.
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It’s silly but I share a birthday with Matthew and when he was murdered I was fresh out of basic training, new in the US and so scared at times. I felt so connected to his story. Those who fought hate while I served gave me strength and determination.
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Not silly at all. Thank you for serving.
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The place where Matthew was so brutally tortured and murdered is on unmarked private property near Laramie, Wyoming, but we found it with GPS. He deserves a memorial there, but we don't need one. He will never be forgotten.
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His parents have probably considered it, but are likely afraid it will be savaged.
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It's sad to say, but you are probably right about that, Ginny.
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That is why Matthew's parents did not 'bury' him w/ a grave marker. All the hate towards LGBT folks, they have been through enough w/ their son. I'm so happy he finally has a place to rest in peace!
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The place where he died is private residential property, so the residents would have to agree to a memorial, even a small one, and he could never have been buried there amidst the houses. I do believe someone will put a marker there someday. It's too hallowed/important a site.
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I understand. I would not to buried between houses. Here in Florida you get about 15 feet between houses for setbacks. I'm so happy Matthew is resting in an honorable place!
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So am I. Finally.
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I’ll never forget Matthew Shepard, nor his mother's tireless efforts to effect change.

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Me either.
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This was the first news story that ever made me cry. I was 28yo, my brother had just come out and this absolutely crushed me.
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It was the first time I really took notice of a crime. I was mad and didn’t quite understand how people would do this to another person. I was fairly young and living in Montana so we heard a lot about it. Until Matt, it never occurred to me how evil people could be.
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This spoke to me... i was also young, also living in Montana (!), still grappling with who I was and baffled that someone could be killed this way for being gay
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Your tender hearts! My mom-heart breaks for all of you who had this be the first news story that taught you that people could be evil. I’m so sorry those of us who are older didn’t get the world a little more kind, fair & good before you got here. Y’all will do better than we did
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We haven’t. I’m now 43. The world is worse now than when I grew up.
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Turned 43 a few days ago, and YES. It hurts how true this is.
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Oh, sweet souls. It does feel that way now. The last 2 years have been dark. We are going to change it. We are. It’s going to get better. I have 3 kids & a bonus boy, 13-24.They believe in love, peace, free press, freedom of speech/ assembly, equal rights for ALL
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