The horrific 1998 murder of 21-year-old college freshman Matthew Shepard brought the issue of hate crimes against lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people to the attention of the American people. The Matthew Shepard Foundation lobbied hard along with other LGBT groups, and in 2009 the federal hate crimes law was amended to include violence against LGBT people for the first time. In spite of the legal victory, however, the fear and hatred of LGBT people persists around the world. Learn about the fight for LGBT civil rights and why an end to prejudice against LGBT people is important for all Americans. And learn about the ways young people--straight and gay--are working together toward mutual understanding, respect, and a better future for all of us by ending homophobia. Each title in this series contains a foreword from the founder of the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN), color photos throughout, and back matter including: an index and further reading lists for books and internet resources. Key Icons appear throughout the books in this series in an effort to encourage library readers to build knowledge, gain awareness, explore possibilities and expand their viewpoints through our content rich non-fiction books. Key Icons in this series are as follows: Words to Understand are shown at the front of each chapter with definitions. These words are set in boldfaced type in that chapter, so that readers are able to reference back to the definitions--building their vocabulary and enhancing their reading comprehension. Sidebars are highlighted graphics with content rich material within that allows readers to build knowledge and broaden their perspectives by weaving together additional information to provide realistic and holistic perspectives. Text-Dependent Questions are placed at the end of each chapter. They challenge the reader's comprehension of the chapter they have just read, while sending the reader back to the text for more careful attention to the evidence presented there. Research Projects are provided at the end of each chapter as well and provide readers with suggestions for projects that encourage deeper research and analysis. And a Series Glossary of Key Terms is included in the back matter containing terminology used throughout the series. Words found here broaden the reader's knowledge and understanding of terms used in this field.