On October 6, 1998, Matthew Shepard, a student at the University of Wyoming, met Aaron James McKinney and Russel Arthur Henderson at a bar. After Shepard admitted he was gay, they talked him into leaving with them, at which point they drove to a secluded location outside Laramie, stole his wallet, tied him to a fence, pistol-whipped him senseless, and left him for dead in freezing weather. He was discovered 18 hours later, his unconscious body initially mistaken for a scarecrow.
Shepard died from his injuries six days later.
The Matthew Shepard Foundation (MSF) was founded by Dennis and Judy Shepard in memory of their 21-year-old son, Matthew, who was murdered in an anti-gay hate crime. Created to honor Matthew in a manner that was appropriate to his dreams, beliefs, and aspirations, the Foundation seeks to “Replace Hate with Understanding, Compassion & Acceptance” through its varied educational, outreach, and advocacy programs, and by continuing to tell Matthew’s story.
Since his death, laws addressing hate crimes have finally been passed under the Obama administration. More information is being provided on the subject of bullying, and acceptance through the work of other organizations, TV celebrities, and shows such as Glee, and Modern Family just to name a few. We’ve made great strides to increase awareness, and understanding on the subject. And yet, there is still much work to be done.
You may recall seeing this video on ABC News about a gay teen’s struggle with bullying in the cyberspace. Jamey Rodemeyer was open about his battle with cyberbullying, but eventually committed suicide just last September.
For these reasons, my partner Dan Melesurgo, and our friends in Rehoboth and Lewes, Delaware are hosting the Erase Hate Second Annual Benefit for the Matthew Shepard Foundation at Ocean Boulevard Furniture. Yes, a furniture store might not be an expected venue, but it is through the generosity of friends who have donated their time, services and gifts, that this years’ event is possible. Last year, we were able to raise more than $8,300 dollars for MSF and create an event that brings our community together to Erase Hate. We hope to stay true to that message this year as we are honored to have Matthew’s mother, Judy Shepard, attend tomorrow’s event.
The poster design shown is my effort to acknowledge Ocean Boulevard Furniture for their commitment and express the need to continue shedding light on the subject.
The poster Kelsey, Heath and I designed for tomorrow’s Erase Hate event at 18467 Coastal Highway Lewes, DE
