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By Christine Williams
The horror of the death of
Matthew Shepard has been felt through
out the nation - especially for queer
students on college campuses. At this
point in time, I find it impossible to
separate myself from this incident. Al
though this crime illuminates a need for
activism and awareness about hate
crimes, and making our campuses safe,
for most importantly, it has been about
our community.
When I heard about the death
of Matthew Shepard, I felt a series of
emotions, ranging from sorrow to frus-
, Page 2, November 1998
■
tration to anger to rage. But, what it
mad me think and realize was deeper
than just recognizing that hate crimes are
out there or that we need hate crimes
legislation. Instead, as I rode my bike to
campus, my rage and sorrow bringing me
to tears, I realized why this reached so
close to home. Matthew was my
brother. Because in his face, I saw the
faces of so rnany of my brothers and
sisters that have been beaten-up, raped,
ridiculed, spit on, kicked-out, put down,
bashed, brutalized and silenced. Because
of his death, I saw the vulnerability we
face because of who we are... because
we are out, we are visible, and because
we refuse to be silent.
(cont’d p. 4)
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Is being gay, lesbian, or bisexual something you're having a hard time
accepting? Are your parents having a hard time dealing with your orientation?
How's the relationship going? Ne^ some advice? I'M HERE! If you have a
problem and want an outsider's point of view, or would like some help finding
more info., write me' and I'll try to help you! Selected letters and responses
.will be published reguarly in a forthcoming advice column. Senders' E-Mail
addresses will be kept strictly confidential!
I.
.wices? no