It is amazing its been 11 years. I remember that day like it was yesterday. Not only was the act dispicable but the reaction and support for the killers from many on the far right, including clergy, politicians and god-fearing people, all hypocrits was equally discpicable. Just like Reagan and his republican cronies allowed millions affected with aids to die in the '80's so did Bush and his cronies ignore the cries of so many and allow the hate to continue.
Well, with the Matthew Shepard as the backdrop and after numerous attempts since his murder, the House has finally passed (still with republican opposition) the first expansion of the Hates Crime Bill since it was enacted after Martin Luther King was assassinated in 1968. If passed, which it will, it will now be a federal offense for crimes based on gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability. It eases restrictions on federally protected activities. It will allow the Federal Government to step in when a State is unwilling or unable to follow through on a purported hate crime...and god knows theres many States that are unwilling.
So, while sad, we thank you Matthew and your family for making a difference for so many.