Matthew Shepard was born on December 1, 1976 to Dennis and Judy Shepard in Casper, Wyoming. When Matthew was a junior in high school, he moved with his family to Saudi Arabia and attended the “American School in Switzerland” because there were no American schools in Saudi Arabia. Matthew went back to Wyoming to attend the University of Wyoming in Laramie where he studied Political Science, Foreign Relations and Languages.
Matthew’s mother said problems started three years ago. Shepard went on a high school trip to Morocco. There, he was beaten and raped. He tested positive for HIV and was strongly considering committing suicide. He did have a problem with drinking and drugs.
According to NNDB.com, Matthew's religion was Anglican/Episcopalian. The site also states that on a 20/20 episode, they said that Matthew was a crystal meth user and attended bars frequently. Also, his remains were cremated.
Matthews parents founded The Matthew Shepard Foundation in order "To persuade people to think differently, behave differently, and inform others of the importance and value of diversity." Speakers from the foundation visit schools and universities around the country raising awareness about gay rights. You are able to donate, purchase items, as well as see recent news about gay rights and equality. For more information, click here.
