Muhlenberg College Hosts Anti-Hate Rally in Memory of Matthew Shepard
On Sunday, October 12, the 10th anniversary of the tragic murder of Matthew Shepard, Muhlenberg College will host a community-wide rally against hate crimes at 7 p.m. in Egner Memorial Chapel.Thursday, October 9, 2008 11:22 AM
The rally, which includes a concert, is open to the public. A $5 donation is suggested. All proceeds with go to the Matthew Shepard Foundation to support their “Erase Hate Initiative.”
Shepard was an openly gay student at the University of Wyoming. His brutal murder brought national and international attention to the issue of hate crime legislation at the state and federal levels. His mother, Judy Shepard, executive director of the Matthew Shepard Foundation, received an honorary degree from Muhlenberg College in May 2008.
In attendance will be Rev. Anne Kitch and Dr. James Peck, cousins of Shepard; Allentown Mayor Ed Pawlowski; Senator Pat Browne; and City Councilwoman Jeanette Eichenwald.
The rally will feature music by Muhlenberg student Ryan Acquaotta and the College’s all-female a capella group, The Girls Next Door; the Lehigh Valley Gay Mens Chorus; the Jamani Drummers; and B.A.S.I.C. from the Metropolitan Community Church.
This event is organized by the Muhlenberg College Gay Straight Alliance, in partnership with the PA Diversity Network, the Metropolitan Community Church of the Lehigh Valley and Quest at Lafayette College.
