Matthew Shepard's Dad To Speak After Laramie Project Performance On Long Island

GLEN COVE, NY — The father of Matthew Shepard, who was slain because he was gay in an apparent hate crime, will take part in a discussion with students after a performance of "The Laramie Project" at Glen Cove High School this Friday, school district officials said Monday.

The Laramie Project delves into the aftermath of the murder of Shepard, a young gay man who was tied to fence, robbed, beaten, and left to die in Laramie, WY, sending shockwaves across the U.S. in 1998.

The story unfolds through interviews and personal accounts, exploring themes of prejudice, compassion, and hope within a closely-knit community and encourages reflection on inclusivity and compassion, school officials said.

The discussion will be moderated by senior Phoebe George and include play director Jared Ross, as well as Rebecca Goldaper from the high school's English Department, junior Kayla Hogan, and City Councilwoman Marsha Silverman.

Shepard, co-founder of the Matthew Shepard Foundation, and his wife, Judy are the panel's special guests.

The play will be performed both Friday and Saturday, however, the discussion with Shepard will only take place after Friday's performance.

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