Rachel Maddow had Judy Shepard, mother of Matthew Shepard, on the show last night to discuss the recent Hate Crimes Legislation (which was passed just this week in the House). They also discussed Virginia Foxx' (R-NC) allegations that Matt's death was not a hate crime, and that using his name to push Hate Crimes Legislation is "a hoax."
I love Judy Shepard. She is an intelligent woman who took an absolutely tragic event in her life and turned her passion into change and love for others. She is patient and loving in her efforts to educate others, and relentless in her intent to achieve justice in Matt's name through cultural and societal progress.
This is also a rare occasion when Rachel addresses LGBT issues that are very emotionally fueled and complicated. This issue is touchy for many people, and still fresh in our minds ten years after the fact. While Rachel is always fair and thorough in her take on events - this one is no differen - it was clear that she values setting the record straight and demonstrating respect for the Shepards as much as the greater LGBT community. It's nice to have that coming from a popular primetime figure, finally.
Linkage here:
Feministing
Shakesville
Here is the clip:
No comments:
Post a Comment