Gay and straight students alike gathered for a candlelight vigil in Wynn Commons last night to commemorate the death of Matthew Shepard, who was brutally murdered 10 years ago for being gay.
The vigil was hosted by Allies, an organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and straight students. The event featured several student speakers, a biography of Shepard and a moment of silence.
Shepard, a University of Wyoming student, was kidnapped and tortured on Oct. 6, 1998 by Russell Henderson and Aaron McKinney, who then left him for dead. He was later taken to a hospital, where he died six days later on Oct. 12.
Last night, more than 20 people gathered in the cold to remember his life and light a candle in his memory. Both gay and straight students spoke about their personal experiences and the status of the LGBT community in today's world.
College junior Dennie Zastrow, chairman of the Lambda Alliance, said it is difficult to fathom that such a brutal crime was committed only 10 years ago.
Now, Allies hopes to ensure that history does not repeat itself.
"The community is working toward making sure no one is ever uncomfortable with who they are," said Atlee Melillo, a College sophomore and co-chairwoman of Allies. "More people need to join, be involved in this community. Our membership is open to all."
Allies urged the LGBT community and its supporters to continue their work in educating people, break through their prejudices and be more accepting.
Former chairwoman of Allies and College alumna Sheyla Medina spoke, stressing that it is not enough to just remember and light a candle -- people need to "love and understand," to bring different minority groups together and make them more accepting, she said.
"We want to educate people, bring acceptance to new thoughts, new opinions and other diversities," Allies co-chairman and College junior Michael Strother said.
Other students offered a simpler message of love and acceptance.
As College senior Phil Shecter put it, "Live for love. Cry for love. Learn for love."
