@Mikewlf337 and others
My point still stands. Matthew Shepard is but a symbol of a broader malaise. But, if you want more specifics on Wyoming-
Wyoming Suicide Facts
• 4th highest suicide rate nationally (1999‐2006) at 19.20 per 100,000
• ⅔ of Wyoming citizens believe treatment for suicidal thoughts is socially stigmatizing
• Led nation in 2002, 2003 & 2006
• Nation’s highest rate of household gun ownership (59.7%)
• 65.7% of suicide deaths were by firearm
• 3rd highest rate nationally for youth ages 15‐24 (1999‐2006) at 20.73
• 2nd leading cause of death for Wyoming youth (after auto accidents)
The population of Wyoming is 93.5% white
There are only two abortion providers in the entire state of Wyoming.
Wyoming is the most conservative state in the Nation.
In 2004, Wyoming had the third-highest divorce rate nationwide.
The teen pregnancy rate in Wyomng in on the rise due to “lack of attention toward children’s issues”
Over 70% of Wyoming residents oppose gay marriage and almost half oppose abortion.
So that’s a start.
By the way, I am not doing this to specifically bash Wyoming. I am dong this to show that there is a difference between attitudes in various states. Not all states are alike. And not all states are equally welcoming to all members of their population. If you’re a gay black male in Wyoming, you are going to have a much more difficult life than in Washington.