Anti-hate crimes activist Judy Shepard to speak at Seminole State

Judy Shepard, a passionate human rights advocate who encourages audiences to fight for diversity, social justice and equality for the LGBTQ community, will be speaking at Seminole State as part of the College’s Speaker Series on Wednesday, March 27.

Shepard draws from personal tragedy to promote a greater understanding of LGBTQ issues. In 1998, she lost her son Matthew to a murder motivated by anti-gay hate that shocked and captivated the nation.

Turning tragedy into a crusade for justice, she is a leading voice in the LGBTQ rights movement and established The Matthew Shepard Foundation to carry on her son’s legacy. Later, she spearheaded The Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr., Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2009, which expanded the federal hate-crime law to include crimes based on gender and sexual orientation.

The author of the best-selling book, “The Meaning of Matthew”, Judy offers an intimate

look at how her life and the entire fight for equal rights changed when her son was killed. With a name now synonymous with activism and equal rights, Judy leaves an indelible imprint with her words, compassion and raw honesty as she urges audiences to make their schools and communities safer for everyone, regardless of race, sex, religion, or gender identity and/or expression.

The presentation will conclude with a Q&A period. A reception and book signing will immediately follow the presentation.

Judy Shepard

Wednesday, March 27 at 7 p.m.
Concert Hall (building G)
Sanford/Lake Mary Campus