Contact: Sara Grossman
Tel. (303) 830-7400 x10
Cell: (727) 560-6476
Email: sara@matthewshepard.org
Website: www.matthewshepard.org
Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/420471028424731/
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Orlando, FL — The Matthew Shepard Foundation and MillerCoors have teamed up once again for a Stay Loud, Be Proud hate crimes training. The beer brand has really stepped up over the last several years with their support of LGBT organizations. The Foundation sees this time as essential to train communities on how to report hate crimes, as well as make sure they know law enforcement can be their friend.
Up to 61% of hate crimes are not reported because people fear re-victimization or not being believed at all. This is why the Matthew Shepard Foundation and MillerLite are taking this presentation and meet-and-greet featuring local law enforcement, government officials, and Foundation staff including the Shepards on the road. Recently, the partnership held Stay Loud, Be Proud panels and receptions in Dallas and Ft. Lauderdale to much success.
The event is two-parts. The first half is a panel discussion on hate crimes for law enforcement, the LGBTQ+ community, and those involved post-Pulse. The second half will be a community reception with MillerLite. The event will take place at Parliament House (410 N Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32805) from 3:30 until 8pm. Attendees can expect to learn the basics of hate crime laws and to be able to chat with the Foundation about their progress heading into their 20th year.
“Being in Orlando with the Matthew Shepard Foundation brings together both communities I’ve been fighting for over the last two years,” said Sara Grossman, the Foundation’s Communication Manager. “After losing a close friend at the Pulse shooting shortly before joining the Foundation’s team, I had hoped we would make it down to Orlando. This is an event that has been needed and will be healing for the community affected by Pulse.”
Judy and Dennis Shepard, the parents of Matthew Shepard–whose brutal and homophobic murder was the impetus for the Matthew Shepard Foundation as well as the Hate Crimes Prevention Act–will be present to answer questions during the reception.
The event is free, open to the public, and you can sign up to attend here.
The Matthew Shepard Foundation’s longstanding mission is to erase hate by replacing it with understanding, compassion and acceptance. Through local, regional and national outreach, we empower individuals to find their voice to create change and challenge communities to identify and address hate that lives within their schools, neighborhoods and homes.
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For media inquiries, please contact Sara Grossman at sara@matthewshepard.org or call 303-830-7400 x10. For other inquiries, please contact Cynthia Deitle at cynthia@matthewshepard.org.