I might also add in response to some preceding comments, I don't believe in a "gay community." Would you please help me understand what a gay culture, lifestyle, or community is? I am gay, but my community involves friends, family, and others nearby, many of which are not gay. That is my community. It's not gay, it's diverse. Isn't that what we should be passing laws for? I don't want to protect gays. I want to protect all. Altruism...I guess I'm being too socialist.
Umm, in case you didn't know.. Matthew Shepard wasn't killed because he was gay. He owed drug dealers money. One of his killers was a bisexual man that knew him well. The perpetrators already confessed to this myth, but the gay rights movement still claims that this was a hate crime. It wasn't, it was a meth crime. I am gay, but I did my research and discovered the challenge to this myth.
This comment has received too many negative votesshow
HA..I grew up in Chicago.Blacks kill white people all the time. I really think its because they hate them. Attorney general Holder admits all people will not be covered...VOTE NO!!!!
Under questioning, Attorney Gen. Holder was surprisingly forthright in admitting that the hate bill is not intended to protect everyone, or even the majority. He said only historically oppressed minorities were to benefit. This means Jews, blacks, homosexuals, women, etc. Holder made it clear that if a white Christian male, including a serviceman or police officer, was the victim of a violent hate crime by any minority he would not be covered by this bill.
Excellent vid Nick!!! It makes me very proud to see young people with a passion for justice. With guys like you, the world truly is a more beautiful place. Peace.
i support civil rights for all. thanks nick for this video. i actually emailed my california representatives a couple of months ago about this important bill. and yes, i was glad it passed the u.s. house. and its in the u.s. senate as of right now (june 18 09) its either going to be heard this week and obama could sign it before august 09. i'm hoping for the best, take care =]
fuck you, you fucking faget shit hole corn fuck butt shit car hole fuck nigger jew shit hole ass damn shit hole cum eating vagina juice shit hole...and umm...uhh fuck!
The problem with hate crime laws is that they can easily be abused. You can't always prove without a doubt that it was motivated by hate.
It's also strange how anytime a white person commits a crime against a non white person it's automatically a hate crime. But vice versa it's rarely a hate crime.
This will no doubt be the same with heterosexuals and homosexuals.
think of it as part of the checks and balances in our criminal justice system. regional cultural prejudices exist and can diminish the capacity of a community to reach for justice. this hate crime legislation enables the federal government to investigate hate crime where it's perceived local law enforcement is less inclined to do so (esp if local law shares the community's prejudice).
this is not a perfect fix, no doubt, but will do far more good than harm i believe. my 2cents! :)
This is something the USA definately has to pass into law there. We Canadians are protected by similar legislation, and it's something that should be law everywhere.
It is nice to see such a video. That there are persons who fight for freedom and peace. In Germany there is this more accepted, but it is still not enough.
The difference in a hate crime is that a crime is committed against you not because of what you have, what you said, what you did, but because of who you are.
That's why hate crimes are different, they directly attack something you can't influence and therefore not protect yourself against. Nice video, strange editing ;)
"Hate crimes attack the core of a person's identity."
I'm not sure I can totally agree with this statement. Gay and lesbian people spend a lot of time and energy making the point that their sexuality is just one of many parts of who they are as human beings. I don't think someone's sexuality should characterized as the core of their being.
But otherwise great message. Keep getting involved! Good stuff!
It's also about federal funding. If it's classified as a hate crime, then local law enforcement will be able to work with the feds, and get federal funding.
Crime is crime, i dont see how one act should be punished more than the other. It just doesn't make sense, and it's a known fact more punishment does NOT decrease crime.
Instead of focusing on the symptoms (when it's too late anyway), focus should be on the cause.
Generally people are afraid / hate things they don't know. So funds should be made available to schools to discuss minority groups and create awareness.
When this piece of legislation hit the floor of congress it was put off with the label of 'a hoax' perpetrated by the Shepards and their Foundation. The two murderers were depicted as merely robbers...not that they lured the kid by pretending to be gay themselves then beating him ultimately causing his death. A robber would have taken the money and left, these sickos stalked Matt and beat him, then bragged about it! There is a difference! STOP THE HATE! Thank you!
Before this video I didn't like the idea of different punishments for crimes because of motivation. It seemed irrelevant to sentencing, as it would seem to make the death of a minority worth more than the punishment of a murderer motivated by different reasons. For me, it seemed as if the two should be equal in any case, but your reasoning has made me rethink my position. I didn't get why most people disagreed with me in my Gay-Straight Alliance, but now I see what they mean.
Excellent message Nick. I had already made my calls. I'm afraid my two senators are going to offset each other's vote. I hope you've inspired many others to call. Emails to your senators can also be made by going through The Human Rights Campaign.
Beautifully said. Maybe you should change the word "Congressman" to "Senator" in the box so people don't get confused. The phone number is correct. People can just say what state they are from and ask to be connected to the senator for that state.
Very well said. It is a very important piece of legislation you are talking about and I am glad that you are able to express your view (which is also my view) in such a clear and concise way. We can all hope that it passes. Have a great day!
Thank you Nick. This is such an important piece of legislation and when spoken about in such a clear, calm and rational manner, I don't know how anyone could dismiss it.
That's one of the best reasoned arguments for hate crimes legislation I've heard, and I've been around a lot longer than you have. You're amazing (Just kill those purple colored segments).
My father was in politics so I was raised in it. Its always been my belief that in order to change things you have to learn to play the political game and be better at it then your opposition. You've chosen a worthy cause.
My Senator is Amy Klobuchar; I know she'll vote for it. Minnesota only has one Senator at the moment, but if we're lucky, Al Franken will be in the Senate by the time this comes to a vote.
If you need help getting in touch with you senator or find the right words to say you can message me, this is what I do for a living; as well as what I'm going to school for.
Yes and no. Most of the legislative members I have worked with rate phone calls at 10 constituents and letters at 100 constituents. The problem is that some things are very time sensitive, especially when hearings are votes are happening so soon. It is also easier to ask voters to make a one-two minute phone call, than it is to ask them to write a letter. Also note that e-mails are only counted as 5 constituents.
A great cause, I hope the US makes the right decision and votes to pass this act. Matt Shepard's death was a tragic case of hate crime. Good on you for posting this video, an excellent example.
I might also add in response to some preceding comments, I don't believe in a "gay community." Would you please help me understand what a gay culture, lifestyle, or community is? I am gay, but my community involves friends, family, and others nearby, many of which are not gay. That is my community. It's not gay, it's diverse. Isn't that what we should be passing laws for? I don't want to protect gays. I want to protect all. Altruism...I guess I'm being too socialist.
evilwalnut 2 years ago
Umm, in case you didn't know.. Matthew Shepard wasn't killed because he was gay. He owed drug dealers money. One of his killers was a bisexual man that knew him well. The perpetrators already confessed to this myth, but the gay rights movement still claims that this was a hate crime. It wasn't, it was a meth crime. I am gay, but I did my research and discovered the challenge to this myth.
evilwalnut 2 years ago
Nick, good show bud. but if you want to get someones attention you gotta take your shirt off. Hahaahh just playing Later dude
mychuckyone 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
HA..I grew up in Chicago.Blacks kill white people all the time. I really think its because they hate them. Attorney general Holder admits all people will not be covered...VOTE NO!!!!
pbrmotorsports 2 years ago
Okey-dokey.
And, after this legislation is signed into law, we need to get together to end RACISM in the GAY community!
Isn't THAT a kick?! Gay racism?
It's alive and well in the gay community.
Tuxster3 2 years ago
Under questioning, Attorney Gen. Holder was surprisingly forthright in admitting that the hate bill is not intended to protect everyone, or even the majority. He said only historically oppressed minorities were to benefit. This means Jews, blacks, homosexuals, women, etc. Holder made it clear that if a white Christian male, including a serviceman or police officer, was the victim of a violent hate crime by any minority he would not be covered by this bill.
TeamPCA 2 years ago
Excellent vid Nick!!! It makes me very proud to see young people with a passion for justice. With guys like you, the world truly is a more beautiful place. Peace.
giannidog1 2 years ago 2
this is cool! way to go nick!
GooberTuna 2 years ago
If I lived in the USA, I would do that, no question. Nick, you ROCK.
<3
sheldon80 2 years ago
i support civil rights for all. thanks nick for this video. i actually emailed my california representatives a couple of months ago about this important bill. and yes, i was glad it passed the u.s. house. and its in the u.s. senate as of right now (june 18 09) its either going to be heard this week and obama could sign it before august 09. i'm hoping for the best, take care =]
totakikay 2 years ago 2
This has been flagged as spam show
fuck you, you fucking faget shit hole corn fuck butt shit car hole fuck nigger jew shit hole ass damn shit hole cum eating vagina juice shit hole...and umm...uhh fuck!
Detoxics 2 years ago
This video has inspired me! I would like to call the DOC about this, but first... can someone please tell me if this bill has been passed or not yet?
MoegiDaDrummer 2 years ago 2
Brilliant! This is a great step forward as a society! ^o-
VanillaSlash 2 years ago 2
This has been flagged as spam show
frekin gayrod...
beatingu868 2 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
*cough*
gay
*mumble*
vlad781 2 years ago
NICK for congress!
tydirium321 2 years ago 5
This comment has received too many negative votes show
I meant uber gay!
AnnuitCoeptis714 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
You are super gay!
AnnuitCoeptis714 2 years ago
your passion enthralls me and your hope makes me breathe easier.
aaaand you're cute.
theloveweshare04 2 years ago 4
(Yet again) your 100% absolutely correct.
This should be formally addressed. No recognition of these crucial factors is social bloodymindedness and an example of "one size fits all" Law.
My daughter has autism and my best friend is gay. Tell me about it.
naughtystepUGC 2 years ago
cool!
ThomasIsTired 2 years ago
This is remarkable that you'd be motivated to send this message to everyone.
Well done!
timoz26 2 years ago
im gonna call my senator,
this was amazing(:
thtshxcbtch 2 years ago 2
This has been flagged as spam show
Take this Avice:
1. put your finger on your nose
2. hold your breath for 5 seconds
3. say the name of your love
4. that person will ask you out on the next Friday
5. you will have the best day tomorrow
6. if you don't copy and paste to 2 other videos you will have bad luck and die in 2 days
sStealthyy 2 years ago
yay!
CasualKaz 2 years ago
I think you should be in politics. For one so young you seem to have the knowledge, passion and the eloquence.
lordgallop 2 years ago
thanks for this vid and for speaking out!
point5past 2 years ago
The problem with hate crime laws is that they can easily be abused. You can't always prove without a doubt that it was motivated by hate.
It's also strange how anytime a white person commits a crime against a non white person it's automatically a hate crime. But vice versa it's rarely a hate crime.
This will no doubt be the same with heterosexuals and homosexuals.
ClassValedictorian 2 years ago 3
think of it as part of the checks and balances in our criminal justice system. regional cultural prejudices exist and can diminish the capacity of a community to reach for justice. this hate crime legislation enables the federal government to investigate hate crime where it's perceived local law enforcement is less inclined to do so (esp if local law shares the community's prejudice).
this is not a perfect fix, no doubt, but will do far more good than harm i believe. my 2cents! :)
point5past 2 years ago
Nick
Thanks for teaching us old folks how it's done! God Bless
quakercub 2 years ago
well said!
Things in Australia don't seem too bad by comparrison.
Well it's not open hate anyway. Same sex couples do walk down the street holding hands, for example, without getting harassed.
Any why is it that roughly one in three youtube comments is either hate filled or unforgivably ignorant!
Is 'WeRemisMusicVideos" joking, I hope so. (ps..if you are...it's not funny! :-p )
chrisamillion 2 years ago 2
Thank you for elevating the stereotypical view of the general intelligence of Australians.
rOoNy911 2 years ago
those people below me are assholes. i support what you say! :)
go mongoos!
greybash 2 years ago 2
This has been flagged as spam show
I'll call my congressman and tell that bitch to vote NO. Suck it queer.
WeRemixMusicVideos 2 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
What a fucking homo. Shut up. You are such a waste of everything.
WeRemixMusicVideos 2 years ago
Great vid :-)
deerhound6 2 years ago
Bravo, Great video Nick.
This is something the USA definately has to pass into law there. We Canadians are protected by similar legislation, and it's something that should be law everywhere.
sheldon80 2 years ago
We don't have these problems here in the UK. We actually view all people as equal, unlike many in America.
Move here!
Elrich89 2 years ago
Same here in The Netherlands, man. I always stand back and look in awe to the things that still happen in the US.
darkblue1976 2 years ago 2
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Really?
You should tell that to the Muslims that have taken over your country.
56gig 2 years ago
There is so much wrong with that sentence, I can't even begin to correct you.
I'll just let you live, swallowed by your ignorance.
Elrich89 2 years ago 6
This comment has received too many negative votes show
You're a liar.
We see the muslims protesting in your streets.
It's your ignorance that has allowed the UK to be handed over to extremists.
So live with your lies and choke on your ignorance.
56gig 2 years ago
I've been thinking alot about you.
i love you and even though i have no idea what this thing is about, it makes me happy just to listen to you talking. x
BethOnTop 2 years ago
=] <3
mongoos150 2 years ago
I wish I could take part, but as live in the UK I can't really call up the senate =/
I wish you all the best of luck though, I REALLY truly hope this legislation gets passed!!!!
ravingmunky 2 years ago
It is nice to see such a video. That there are persons who fight for freedom and peace. In Germany there is this more accepted, but it is still not enough.
mikecrazy03 2 years ago
The difference in a hate crime is that a crime is committed against you not because of what you have, what you said, what you did, but because of who you are.
That's why hate crimes are different, they directly attack something you can't influence and therefore not protect yourself against. Nice video, strange editing ;)
NichisStuff 2 years ago
=) I hope it goes well Nick!
<3
killert00thbrush 2 years ago
"Hate crimes attack the core of a person's identity."
I'm not sure I can totally agree with this statement. Gay and lesbian people spend a lot of time and energy making the point that their sexuality is just one of many parts of who they are as human beings. I don't think someone's sexuality should characterized as the core of their being.
But otherwise great message. Keep getting involved! Good stuff!
jplmail9999 2 years ago
:) :) very inspiring
Calculatrice16 2 years ago
You're amazing are doing commercial/ad/videos.
therocketemily 2 years ago
By the way, i didn't like how you made it sound like the two guys who murdered Shepard got off easy, because they weren't charged with hate crime.
Both got two life sentences, one without parole. What could 'hate crime' possibly have added to that? Another lifetime?
Janszler 2 years ago
It's also about federal funding. If it's classified as a hate crime, then local law enforcement will be able to work with the feds, and get federal funding.
Poggylot 2 years ago 2
Crime is crime, i dont see how one act should be punished more than the other. It just doesn't make sense, and it's a known fact more punishment does NOT decrease crime.
Instead of focusing on the symptoms (when it's too late anyway), focus should be on the cause.
Generally people are afraid / hate things they don't know. So funds should be made available to schools to discuss minority groups and create awareness.
Janszler 2 years ago
When this piece of legislation hit the floor of congress it was put off with the label of 'a hoax' perpetrated by the Shepards and their Foundation. The two murderers were depicted as merely robbers...not that they lured the kid by pretending to be gay themselves then beating him ultimately causing his death. A robber would have taken the money and left, these sickos stalked Matt and beat him, then bragged about it! There is a difference! STOP THE HATE! Thank you!
UncleBym 2 years ago
Before this video I didn't like the idea of different punishments for crimes because of motivation. It seemed irrelevant to sentencing, as it would seem to make the death of a minority worth more than the punishment of a murderer motivated by different reasons. For me, it seemed as if the two should be equal in any case, but your reasoning has made me rethink my position. I didn't get why most people disagreed with me in my Gay-Straight Alliance, but now I see what they mean.
ShinyHappyVloggyPPL 2 years ago
@ShinyHappyVloggyPPL: Nah, you were right before ;-)
Janszler 2 years ago
I'm on it Nick! Good to see you and great video..good to see you standing tall! Hope all is well with you!
pvampire 2 years ago
Excellent message Nick. I had already made my calls. I'm afraid my two senators are going to offset each other's vote. I hope you've inspired many others to call. Emails to your senators can also be made by going through The Human Rights Campaign.
alaninnh 2 years ago
Awesome video Nick! 5 stars!!
Ray3010 2 years ago
Beautifully said. Maybe you should change the word "Congressman" to "Senator" in the box so people don't get confused. The phone number is correct. People can just say what state they are from and ask to be connected to the senator for that state.
robertbangkok 2 years ago
How can I send this directly to each member of the senate?
WhirledSol 2 years ago
Call the number I provided, and you will be connected to any senator you wish to speak with!
mongoos150 2 years ago
Very well said. It is a very important piece of legislation you are talking about and I am glad that you are able to express your view (which is also my view) in such a clear and concise way. We can all hope that it passes. Have a great day!
Maddog53 2 years ago
Thank you Nick. This is such an important piece of legislation and when spoken about in such a clear, calm and rational manner, I don't know how anyone could dismiss it.
RGjr146 2 years ago
That's one of the best reasoned arguments for hate crimes legislation I've heard, and I've been around a lot longer than you have. You're amazing (Just kill those purple colored segments).
abmindprof 2 years ago
Such a wonderful video
preventionofgayabuse 2 years ago
Thanks so much for doing this. That was a very well presented video.
maitriparamita 2 years ago
excellent video made for an excellent reason!
way to go nick!!
thanx for all you do
<3
HypnosReveur 2 years ago
Nick, when you take on a serious issue, you do it with calm, persuasive, reasoned arguments. You do it as well as anybody. Bravo.
mickeleh 2 years ago 4
there is no way in hell that my congressman or senator will vote for this bill :(
howdoiquityou2006 2 years ago
Congress has already passed it. So all you have to do is work on your Senators.
mickeleh 2 years ago
yer such a cutie(:
sydnip 2 years ago
My father was in politics so I was raised in it. Its always been my belief that in order to change things you have to learn to play the political game and be better at it then your opposition. You've chosen a worthy cause.
Agriking 2 years ago
A powerful and strong message. 5*
kensington25 2 years ago
I love how eloquent you are =]
Vote Nick!
CasualKaz 2 years ago 2
Great video and message.
warn81 2 years ago 2
nick, youre so well spokenly amazing
i want to call in
only thing is,
im a canadian ):
leUNFAMOUS 2 years ago
this video proves that even short people can make a difference!
Toddly00 2 years ago
PS...an amazing video and an amazing message :) Good luck!
Jamandell 2 years ago
Yo Nick, how goes it? Which camera do you use, and how does it get so clear?
Jamandell 2 years ago
Comment removed
CasualKaz 2 years ago
Nick, you are such a lovely person.
Thisisace 2 years ago 2
Awesome job getting the info out about this. Thanks for making this video! :D
PickThisCar 2 years ago
this is so lovely. you are lovely.
p.s i like the shirt ;)
littlegurlini 2 years ago
i love your shirt!
carsonmaier14 2 years ago 2
Great video, Nick!
My Senator is Amy Klobuchar; I know she'll vote for it. Minnesota only has one Senator at the moment, but if we're lucky, Al Franken will be in the Senate by the time this comes to a vote.
Cadwaladr 2 years ago
If you need help getting in touch with you senator or find the right words to say you can message me, this is what I do for a living; as well as what I'm going to school for.
DragonRiderHP 2 years ago 2
isnt it taken more seriously if you write a letter to ur senator?
sleekcartim 2 years ago
Yes and no. Most of the legislative members I have worked with rate phone calls at 10 constituents and letters at 100 constituents. The problem is that some things are very time sensitive, especially when hearings are votes are happening so soon. It is also easier to ask voters to make a one-two minute phone call, than it is to ask them to write a letter. Also note that e-mails are only counted as 5 constituents.
DragonRiderHP 2 years ago
you said this so well
iamdemom1 2 years ago
A great cause, I hope the US makes the right decision and votes to pass this act. Matt Shepard's death was a tragic case of hate crime. Good on you for posting this video, an excellent example.
darthpotatoechipclip 2 years ago
What a great cause.
I only wish I was an American citizen, hee.
007meepit 2 years ago 3
I saw the film about Matthew it was very moving. He had a difficult life even before the terrible murder happened.
Good luck with the bill
wmcelhatton 2 years ago
Very well done. Lets all make this happen!
steay safe and keep it real.
marty1160 2 years ago
Wow first viewer yay :)
dansgalaxy 2 years ago