December 22, 2023
Citizens’ Stamp Advisory Committee (c/o Stamp Development)
475 L’Enfant Plaza SW, Room 3300
Washington, D.C. 20620-3501
RE: Supporting the Matthew Shepard U.S. Postage Stamp Campaign
To whom this may concern:
As our nation commemorates 25 years since the brutal and senseless murder of Matthew Shepard, I write today to express my full and enthusiastic support for the campaign seeking to honor his legacy through the dedication of a Forever U.S. Postage Stamp.
I strongly believe that the visibility generated by such a gesture would dovetail beautifully with the mission of the Matthew Shepard Foundation, which was founded after his murder in 1998 to “inspire individuals, organizations and communities to embrace the dignity and equality of all people” and honor Matthew’s wish to “foster a more caring and just world.” Not only would it be a fitting national tribute to Matthew’s legacy, but it would be an important teaching tool that can be utilized to educate the next generation about the historic impact of his life and how his tragic death was a catalyst for making the United States and the world more just and equitable for LGBTQ+ people.
This initiative would also serve as a powerful rallying cry for the work that must be done in the present day to combat the heartless efforts afoot by bigots and self-serving politicians alike to rip away equal protections from LGBTQ+ people and transgender people especially.
As a steadfast ally of the LGBTQ+ community, I stand proudly with the Matthew Shepard Foundation in its ongoing efforts to make a positive impact in the world and its drive to honor the legacy of a young man whose brilliant light will never dim as a beacon for equality.
Sincerely,
Arnold W. Drucker
Nassau County Legislator (Long Island, N.Y.)
16th Legislative District