Matthew Shepard

Hate crime victim and LGBTQ+ symbol

Matthew Shepard - Hate crime victim and LGBTQ+ symbol
Born

December 1st, 1976
48 years ago

Died

October 12th, 1998
26 years ago — 21 years old

Category

Activists & Humanitarians

Country

United States

Links & References

Born in 1976, this individual became a symbol of the plight against hate crimes targeting the LGBTQ+ community after suffering a brutal attack in 1998. The incident garnered national attention and highlighted issues of homophobia and violence. Following the tragic death, advocacy efforts surged, leading to increased awareness and legislative changes regarding hate crime laws in the United States.

Victim of a hate crime in Wyoming

Inspiration for the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act

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