We look forward to coming back to the Windy City and engaging with the community on the work that we are doing in our 20th anniversary year. Our goal is to fill the gap in hate crime training that new recruits fail to receive in their respective academies. The training will encompass blocks of instruction on state and federal hate crime laws, and also will incorporate a real world scenario for the participants to work through with the instructors. They will learn how to properly identify a hate crime, how to ensure a comprehensive and thorough investigation, and will learn how to prepare the case for trial. *** The Matthew Shepard Foundation’s longstanding mission is to erase hate by replacing it with understanding, compassion and acceptance. Through local, regional and national outreach, we empower individuals to find their voice to create change and challenge communities to identify and address hate that lives within their schools, neighborhoods and homes. Our work is an extension of Matt’s passion to foster a more caring and just world. We share his story and embody his vigor for civil rights to change the hearts and minds of others to accept everyone as they are.