Gay victim of violent attack shares powerful video message
A man decided to upload a message of love after he was subjected to a crime fuelled by hate.
A gay man who was beaten up in San Francisco – simply for what he was wearing – has uploaded a powerful video in a bid to spread the “powerful message of love.”
Jeffery Lafayette – who suffered injuries to his face, chest and legs – was brutally attacked by multiple assailants as the Super Bowl took place in the city.
“I was gay bashed in San Francisco,” Lafayette wrote on a series of signs he holds up in the video.
“They spat on me and kicked me as I screamed for help – all because I decided to wear white pants.
He goes on to discuss the extent of his injuries, before encouraging other victims of violent crime to stay strong.
“I am covered in bruises, some blood, and tear stains,” he writes.
“But no matter how hard they hit, no matter how cruel life will be, you must always GET UP!
“And continue to love and smile! Never forget to SMILE.”
The poignant video – which features the song ‘What A Wonderful World’ playing in the background – has received neatly 800,000 views and been shared nearly 12,000.
A GoFundMe page has since been set up for Mr Lafayette, as he is unable to work due to his injuries.
Watch for yourself below:
The strength of your love is more powerful than any fist! Thank you! Please Share. The LGBT youth needs to see this so they are aware of the hatred that is still out there but tell them that no matter how much hatred or cruelty you are faced with, the love from those you surround yourself with is STRONGER than anything! Thank you God, my family, and my friends!
Posted by Jeffery Lafayette on Sunday, 7 February 2016
