It’s hard to believe it was 14-years ago tonight that Matthew Shepard was beaten and left to die in a remote area of Wyoming. He would be found some 18 hours later and taken to a hospital, where he would never regain consciousness and die six days later.

Matthew’s death was a bit of a wake-up call for the Nation. And while NOTHING can replace his loss, after many years of political horseplay by Democrats and Republicans, President Barack Obama signed the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act in 2009, which finally expanded the 40-year old United States Federal Hate Crime Act to include crimes motivated by sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and/or disability. The act was also the first federal measure to provide protection for transgender persons.

Additionally, thanks to the efforts of Matthew’s parents Judy and Dennis, his name lives on through a foundation they created that supports diversity and tolerance, eliminating hate within society, putting lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth first and to ensure equality for all LGBT Americans.

Please take a moment to remember Matthew as well all those who have been a victim of hate and stupidity. And no…they don’t have to be gay. A victim is a victim.

To learn more about the Matthew and the incredible foundation that was named in his honor, please visit their website – Matthew Shepard Foundation