In conjunction with its October production of "The Laramie Project", Pisces Moon Productions is collaborating with the Matthew Shepard Foundation to present “Raising Ourselves/Erasing Hate: An Invitation to Change,” providing for a dialog about the power that one individual has to change their world and adopt the values of respect and dignity for others. This free performance will feature spoken word artists, musicians, actors, speakers and victims of hate crimes. It will take place from 7 - 9 PM at Louden Nelson Center, 301 Center Street in Santa Cruz, on September 6th.

The Matthew Shepard Foundation was founded by Dennis and Judy Shepard in memory of their 21-year old son, Matthew, who was murdered in a gay hate crime in Wyoming on October 12, 1998.

Created to honor Matthew in a manner that was appropriate to his dreams, beliefs and aspirations, the Foundation seeks to "Replace Hate with Understanding, Compassion & Acceptance" through its varied educational, outreach and advocacy programs and by continuing to tell Matthew's story. Read More