This year’s Democratic National Convention may leave something to be desired in its socially distant new format, but Tuesday night’s delegate roll call–one of the more tedious features of past conventions–was a surprising high point.
Each state shot their own short clip announcing the breakdown of delegate votes, bringing a bit of dynamism to an otherwise dull process.
Related: People can hardly wait to hear Melania give Michelle Obama’s incredible DNC speech again next week
Representing the state of Wyoming were Judy and Dennis Shepard, parents of Matthew Shepard, who was brutally tortured and murdered for being gay in 1998. Judy and Dennis have fought tirelessly for LGBTQ rights since Matthew’s death.
How about we take this to the next level?
Our newsletter is like a refreshing cocktail (or mocktail) of LGBTQ+ entertainment and pop culture, served up with a side of eye-candy.
“We see in Joe so much of what made Matt’s life special — his commitment to equality, his passion for social justice and his boundless compassion for others,” said Dennis.
Watch them read the vote count:
‘We see in Joe what made Matt’s life so special’ — Watch Matthew Shepard’s parents cast Wyoming’s delegate votes at the #DemConvention pic.twitter.com/np4N6tu6eu
— NowThis (@nowthisnews) August 19, 2020
The Shepard’s politics were hardly a mystery before this week.
Ahead of the 2016 election, Judy Shepard appeared in a campaign ad released by pro-Clinton super PAC Priorities USA, warning:
“Words have an influence. Violence causes pain. Hate can rip us apart. I know what can happen as a result of hate, and Donald Trump should never be our president.”
Full roll call from the 2020 convention below:
Kangol2
A beautiful moment. The entire Democratic state roll call was incredibly inspiring.
Cam
They’re still fighting the good fight. What happened to their son was due to hatred and bigotry, and what happened after even more so.
Every time a story ran about Matthew on blogs like this, troll accounts would come on and try to insert whatever lie the right wing bigots were using that week to try to excuse and defend Sheppard’s murder.
These are wonderful people and I thank the for continuing to do what they are doing in their son’s memory.
WSnyder
They are inspirational. I was also very moved when Matthew’s ashes were interred at the Washington National Cathedral, a belated honor for a young man you suffered so much but after his death, changed so much in our country for the LGBTQ+ Community.
Trekbike
Matthews death was horrific and sad. I’ve read every book written about Matthew Shepherd, including the book his mom authored. What a wonderful loving mother he had. No wonder her son was so kind and beautiful. Any child would be grateful to have such wonderful, loving, and dedicated parents. May they continue their great work for a great cause. Love to you all.