doi:10.7916/wg63-9989Oral history interview with Judy Shepard and Dennis W. Shepard, 2021Shepard, Judy Peckoral historiesmixed materialPresidents--United StatesHate crimes--Law and legislation--United StatesVictims of hate crimes--United StatesGay rights--United StatesLobbying--Law and legislation--United StatesTransgender people--Civil rights--United StatesShepard, Judy PeckShepard, DennisShepard, Matthew, 1976-1998Obama, BarackMatthew Shepard FoundationHuman Rights Campaign FoundationJudy and Dennis Shepard tell the story of being introduced to the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) by Dennis Dougherty at their son Matthew Shepard's funeral. Judy talks about attending an HRC gala shortly thereafter, visiting HRC's office in Washington D.C., trusting HRC immediately, and volunteering her presence. She discusses how talking about Matthew became her grieving process and helping his community gave her a purpose, as well as learning of the power of personal story. She delves into her first trip to HRC in Washington D.C. and her early interactions with HRC staff and board members, as well as her relationship with Elizabeth Birch. Judy discusses the challenges of lobbying Congress and why she had to quit, meeting with and forming personal relationships with Congress members, and connecting with audiences while speaking. They tell stories of the Equality Rocks concert, the Millennium March on Washington, a PFLAG dinner, and meeting President Bill Clinton. Judy talks about joining the HRC Board of Directors, why she pushed to include transgender issues in HRC's mission, and the Employment Non-Discrimination Act. Judy talks about meeting President Barack Obama, attending Michelle Obama's luncheon, and forming a relationship with Bishop Gene Robinson. Judy and Dennis tell stories from the signing of the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act and the subsequent reception, as well as various other visits to the White House. They delve into the implementation and impact of the Hate Crimes Prevention Act, and discuss their lasting presence in the public eye and why the public resonated so strongly with Matt. Judy and Dennis talk about the support of Senators Ted Kennedy and Gordon Smith and why the LGBTQ movement decided hate crimes legislation was the issue to start with. Judy and Dennis explain how local Laramie, Wyoming police became allies to the LGBTQ community after Matthew's murder; the distrust the LGBTQ community sometimes has towards police; and the lack of publicity about LGBTQ people in law enforcement. They explain that President George W. Bush did not see the LGBTQ community as legitimate, and the challenge of reaching individuals who are not personally affected by an issue. Judy talks about feeling hopeful but still uncertain about the hate crimes bill after President Barack Obama was elected and Democrats gained control of Congress, her role as a quiet presence when lobbying, and her approach to answering questions honestly. They talk about their relationship with Brian Bond; the importance of addressing bullying in schools; Valerie Jarrett; and what they admire about Joe Biden. Judy and Dennis end by sharing stories of Matthew's ties