This is as bizarre a story as it gets. I been able to collect this material from different source sources online. But here it goes.
Gwen Araujo, who at that time went by the name “Lida”, was introduced to a circle of friends whom she met during a chance encounter while walking down a local street. The group of young adults enjoyed passing the evening hours with party activities that included playing dominoes and consuming drugs and alcohol at the home of Araujo’s to-be assailants.
A few weeks later, she was invited back to the house where a party was planned. Before leaving for the party, Gwen had an argument with her mother over the attire. This was the last time Sylvia Guerrero saw her child alive.
At the party on October 3, 2002 it was discovered, by forced inspection (conducted by Nicole Brown, a young woman at the party), that Araujo had male genitalia, following which the men that she had had sexual relations with became extremely agitated. Once it was discovered that Araujo was biologically male, Mike Magidson began choking her in the hallway of the house.
At this point numerous guests left the residence. Jose Merel and Jaron Nabors remained inside the residence with Mike Magidson. Jason Cazares claimed to go outside at this point; however he did not leave because he had arrived in Mike Magidson’s truck. After everyone left, the three assailants continued assaulting Araujo. She was brutally beaten for about 5 hours.
Jose Merel struck her over the head with a frying pan and then struck again with a can of tomatoes, causing a gash to her head which bled profusely. Mike Magidson kneed her in the head against the living room wall, with such force that her head caused an indentation in the plaster wall. After this, Araujo was taken to the garage of the home and strangled with a rope. Most accounts have Jose Merel cleaning blood out of the carpet at the time she was strangled.
She was then hog-tied, wrapped in a blanket and placed in the bed of a pick-up truck. The three assailants, plus Jason Cazares drove her body to parkland in El Dorado County, California, a wooded area in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada known as Silver Fork, where she was finally buried in a shallow grave.
It is not clear at what point during this sequence of events Araujo’s death occurred. However, the autopsy showed that she died from strangulation associated with blunt force trauma to the head.
Indeed a sad story but I think the beatings and strangulation was too much and really unwarranted. Stuff happens but in this case Gwen Araujo paid an extremely heavy price.
A youtube video dedication to Gwen Araujo, check it out below and leave your comments.
Dear Sylvia,
You are an inspirational mother! You had a strong and beautiful daugther and she not deserved to died in that way. You and your daugther didn’t do anything wrong! She assumes her real natture with lot of courage, sha was a warrior, like you are. God bless you both!
All men kill your child are really monsters!
Sorry for my English, it’s not my language I’m from Mexico y speack Spanish!..Your story touch my heart deeply!
I am truly sorry for your loss. I just saw the movie and it was tragic, I can’t believe people bring religion in this matter. She was a beautiful young woman and I am sorry that it happened to your family. Please know that God loved Gwen and not everybody feels that way.
I am just in total AWE about this whole situation, I just can’t believe that people can do such terrible things to another “HUMAN BEING”!! I watched this movie about Gwen for the 1st time today (10/03/09) and the movie prompted me to do more research about Gwen’s tragic story on the internet. I have a nephew that is gay, and just the thought of someone harming him has me terrified! My heart goes out to Gwen and her family… I am so, so, sorry for your tragic loss, my heart goes way out to you! I am literally in tears right now… R.I.P. GWEN!!!!
I just watched the movie on Gwen’s life, and I have to say that she lived her short life to fullest. She loved the people around her and they loved her. That is the number one thing that our parents tried to teach us. That is what God teaches us!! He gave His only Son for what? Wait for it…LOVE! Like others have said, don’t judge people, because one day it will be your turn. Are you ready?! My heart goes out to Gwen’s family and friends. WWJD, What Would Jesus Do?!
i seen this movie today on the lifetime network, it was very touching. as i watched it i realized i was reacting the same way at the actors. the murder should of never happended or thought of, just because of jelousley and hate. i dont judge anyone in anyway, and dont think anyone else should. i just watched the youtube video thats on here and gwen was a very beautiful person. my thoughts and prayers go out to the family and every person who dares to be different. live life the way you want, and nevermind the “normal” people.
R.I.P GWEN you will always be missed
I like many others just got done watching the true movie story on lifetime about Gwen, it touched my heart and soul. I admire her courage it takes to alot of strength to realize who you truly are and live life ok with that. God bless Gwen and her family.
Ignorance will never leave this world, but there is a lot of love and understanding to go around and be shared.
Thank you to the family of Gwen for sharing yours and her story.
Thanks
Ashley
i just watch the movie today and i couldnt stop criying i dont go to church i believe in god and that he work in misterious ways i dont believe is ok to tell a mom that just lost her baby that she will burn in hell cuz u r not the one that make that decision and after all bible was writen by a man how do we know it wasnt changed? that theres some info missing. in there?we just have to wait in the meantime dont judge the person nxt to u God love us all thats why Jesus die for us and that why he forget u u just have to ask for it cuz He loves us all we r not perfect and he knows that if u r such a hater dont leave comment cuz is not constructive that why SHE died cus close minded people
I totally agree!
and God will not want any of us to die and suffer like that .will u be ok ur son suffer like that cuz hes different i dont think so
i just saw the movie on LMN sorry for your loss .
When i Watdched the movie i cried when i read the bio up top i cried when i watshed the video i cried man she died in a terrible way i hope her family is ok RIP Gwen
NUNYA , Leo, Lambert You guys are idiots, moron and shameless bastards. Actually GOD do mistakes when He/She (whatever GOD is) made you people with complete 0% smartness. There are like few hundred religions and more than millions GOD out there. Why you think Bible is only one and CHURCH teaching is always right. Anyway nor Bible neither any other HOLY book had any thought about 21st century stuff. HOLY books are just guideline to be good to each other and act like human beings. I believe in humanity and don’t care about gender. Believe in GOD but don’t follow idiots. Please act like humans with different people. we are same but in different way.
Peace..
While agree its very sad they died and how they died. But they sadly brought this all on themselves. They did wrong by not coming out saying drag queen. They had no right to play with other folks emotions and lives. So not surprised they got murdered.
So if I’m dating some guy and find out he’s married and never told me, would it be appropriate to then beat him relentlessly for five hours, strangle him, and bury his body in a shallow grave? People lie, deceive, evade, and hide things for all kinds of reasons. And that situation I just spoke of happens A LOT. The only difference is a cheating man does not have to pay with his very life, and then get the blame for his own death. Perhaps Gwen knew what might happen to her, and that’s why she didn’t tell these people. Maybe if she had, she’d have died sooner. price with their lives, then everyone says, well, they should have told the truth.
Gwen was a seventeen year old. How many of us, no matter what your gender or sexual preference, had perfect judgement at seventeen? She did not deserve what happen to her in any way, shape, or form, and it truly infuriates me when anyone implies that this was in any way her fault.
I’m also sick of all the Bible quote twisting. We’ve ALL sinned. And God forgives ALL our sins. According to the Bible, fornication is a sin…ALL fornication, homosexual or heterosexual. So anyone who’s had sex outside of marriage is just as big of a sinner as Gwen or anyone like Gwen. I don’t think any of us are any better than she was, and I don’t think she’s any worse than me. She made mistakes. So have I. And unless you’re some perfect human being who’s never done a single thing wrong in your entire life, you have no right to come on here judging her for anything!
I think a male having intercourse unknowingly with another male does not equate to a woman finding out her boyfriend is married. Well, not a true straight male in this case.
Yes, there are consequences for allowing another person to believe in a false physical gender reality. It is wrong for anyone to allow a potential intimate partner to believe they are what they are not.
Common sense does not just become “null and void” because you are LGBT…..
Kat, Your dumb! What the hell is the matter with you. Not drag queen dumby. Ley me spell it out for you TRANSSEXUAL WOMAN. Sadly your an ignorant peice od trash. Nor did she or anyone else bring this on themselves. They didn’t force those idiots to kill them. They commited murder on their own. Thay are responsible for their own actions. Kat GROW UP!
Meant to say they should have told folks who fell in love with them; that they were a drag queen.
I DON’T KNOW WHAT IS WRONG WITH SOME OF YOU PEOPLE! THIS IS NOT WHAT THE WEBSITE WAS FOR, YOU ALL ARE CARRYING ON LIKE A BUNCH LITTLE SCHOOL KIDS. I SEND ALL MY LOVE AND PRAYERS OUT TO HER FAMILY……………
I think you should tell truth but nobody has the right to hurt or take somebody’s life .it’s WRONG.
Kat, fear of rejection may have had a lot to do with Gwen lying to these men. She wanted to be loved as do we all. She was also very young. I know when I was young I made many wrong decisions, so I can’t judge her. Also, since when does lying equal a death sentence?
I just finished watching the Lifetime movie for the first time. It was utterly disturbing what these ignorant and heartless boys did to Gwen. She must have been an extremely strong person in order to be able to live in a body that she did not feel fit her and then to be able to openly express who she really was. This is an admirable quality. I want to send my regards from my heart to Gwen’s family and true friends. With your support, Gwen seemed to have the support she needed to express her true self and be a happy person. I wish that people in our society would be more open to others and also live their own lives. “Those who mind do not matter and those who matter in life do not mind!” Gwen is such a beautiful person, both inside and out, and had her family as her guide.
Que dios le bendigo.
Why are we so afraid of all that is different? Why do we have this self-given power and authority to stand on a pedestal and look down at others while holding the Bible tight under our arms? Let’s meditate you ‘all so called Christians’ for a few seconds on The Leader’s steps: Did He not seat with the sinful? Was his Team of disciples made out of perfect beings specially delivered for the occasion? Grow up in love and in the Light of God, for He is love and died, as per the book you are holding so tight as you lift your hand to point at your brothers and sisters…obviously without reading it, for love. Ups, sorry, again for you perfect beings out there, but the word love has four letters and each of them is different….maybe too much, or too big of a concept for some to understand.
Hhmmm, I just have to wonder what some people are thinking. I have God in my heart. I love God with all my heart and soul. I talk to God each day. I dont always read my bible. I cant tell you where certain things are in the bible. But from what I have read, I know that I’m supposed to love my friends, family, neighbors, and strangers as I love myself. Gwen included. You are supposed to cast the sin, not the person. I’m not supposed to judge anyone, thats Gods job if they need it. And it is up to God to decide if they need it, not me. And last, but not in the least at all. Didnt Jesus die for everyones sins?? If you’re going to throw the verses of the bible out there, shouldnt that one be there too?? You say Gwen was a sin. Well, Didnt Jesus take care of that sin?? So then that brings us back to the beginning. If Jesus took care of the sin and we arent supposed to Judge, and we’re supposed to love our neighbors and everyone?? Gwen’s problems are covered… What about yours and your judging ways??? Something to think about if you’re going to cast stones. Make sure your hide is out of deep stuff before you worry about someone elses. My son and daughter watched the movie with me yesterday. My heart broke for Gwen. All she wanted was total acceptance and love. Why was that so hard to get??
when people hate some thing in life and commit an act to change it.
it become a conscious choice.yes,this was a hate crime and murder.
all four idiot had a choice to walk away.now they are lock up having sex with other men.
rest in peace little angle.
Janice is 100% right in her post. I just love all the judgemental religionists, playing the “Jesus” card in defense of their ignorance, bias, and prejudice. God, Jesus, Buddha, Mohammed, Lao Tzu…..they ALL would have nothing but unconditional, universal love and respect for any creature. But their supposed followers? Never. Real “Christ”ians walk the message, the other 99% just talk it. If God doesn’t make mistakes and God made Gwen Araujo, what other evidence do you want to know that she was innocent? From all the research I’ve done, and many more legitimate resources than some majorly edited book designed to control the masses and from ages ago, Gwen was likely a woman in many previous lives (which USED to be part of the bible but were taken out to instill more fear in people), and came back in a male body, but a female soul. For alleged (and quite haughty, unfortunately) “Christians” to point out that she lied to people is weak; certainly calling yourself a Christian and chastising a dead child or other parents for loving their different children is a greater offense to an all-loving greater being, no? Quit tarnishing God’s name with your stereotypes, prejudice and B.S. And may many parents of different children know that this type of hate crime is rare, and that there are far more good, open-minded people in today’s world than there are those capable of hate crimes. Plus, all kids are made some of for some reason, it seems, no matter what. For some inspiration, please check this site out: http://www.dancaro.com God bless!
HERE! HERE! Wow Erica that was a compelling and great arguement. That was superior quality work right there! I’m not a firm believer in God but you seriously were NOT AT ALL being preachy and I liked that. THANK U!
just looking at these pictures i can see Gwen was very very beautiful. she should not have been punished for who she was. Those boys deserve to rot in hell for all i care i i hope God shows them greater punishment then what the legal system on earth showed them. Gwen is a magnificent angel now looking down upon her family, friends, and others who are going through the change she went through
God Bless ♥
He doesnt make mistakes.. he made her that way for a reason.. she had a developmental problem.. learn phycology..
God doesn’t make mistakes he made us all the way we are whether it is gay, lesbian, bisexual, transsexual, heterosexual.
God bless the Araujo family. No psrent, sister, brother, family should have to endure what they have. Gwen was clearly a beautiful,talented, dearly loved young person, who should not have died. Our hearts and prayers go out to all who are not safe being who they are. We must work to make the world a safer place for all our children.
i just watched the movie for the first time and cried my eyes out. People should deal with discrimination just because they are different. If everone was “normal” then the world would be bland and boring. Its people like Gwen who found their true selves that make the world different and beautiful. Its sad that so many people criticize the abnormal because of their fear not to accept who they are. Another thing is the whole “Bible” thing. It was constructed by man and constantly revised, so who knows is that is still God breathing through it? Also my prayers go out to the family and I hope they know and her mother knows that Gwen was a beautiful person….inside and out..
R.I.P Gwen
i only caught half of the movie and i was in tears…my brother is a gay man and i worry about him because of people like those who took gwen i love my brother very much. ive worked in a prison and i have seen how it really is on the inside these criminals are not “rotting in prison” like everyone would hope they are…they get 3 hot meals a day a shower they watch tv go outside to get fit and mingle they get medical attention and get to finish school or college and if they really wnt they cud find love w the opposite sex because of weak employees they have more rights than you think and i hate it! i dont think its right for these criminals to continue to live and laugh and carry on makin new friends talk with family and theyr victims can no longer even take a breathe.. i wish jurors and everyday people would realize that before they say well prison is harsh enough cause its not and until the prison system changes drastically and isnt a resort for these criminals my feeling stay the same. gwen should not have been taken my heart is with everyone who cared for gwen
To all of you who bring up the Bible: Do you live your life the way the Bible wants you too to the T? Hmmm…I take that as a very big NO! I am a Christian Woman and believe in the Bible but I also believe in the Earth, Nature, Science, People, etc….With all the stories and wars of religion centuries ago, would you agree to be killed for not doing everything the Bible says to do? Would you think it fair for someone else to control how you live your life? I think not. So, please (and this goes to every single person on this Earth who uses religion to dictate someone’s life): Quit the nonsense, grow up, learn something and be a better person to yourself and to others. Without this, we will definitely destroy each other because of the stupidity of some… Gwen Amber Rose Araujo: Trust me when I say, that you are in a better place, wherever that might be. There is too much hate and stupidity on this Earth for a sweet angel like yourself to be in the midst of. May you forever Rest In Peace My Dear.
Hi all, my thoughts, prayers and love go out to Gwen and her family. If any of you Bible quoting people whould learn about transsexualism you would that transsexualism has nothing to do with homosexuality. We are not homosexual, I’m a male to female transsexual and illgally married to my husband and I’ll celabrating my 14th wedding anniversary on the 16th. I have also been at my job for 16 years is that normal enough for you ignorent Bible thompers However it does not matter if you homosexual, bisexual or whatever God is love not hate only ignorence people can hate.
Since I wrote this fast while I was on the phone I’ll rewrite it to correct my mistakes.
Hi all, my thoughts, prayers and love go out to Gwen and her family. If any of you Bible quoting people would learn about transsexualism you would learn that transsexualism has nothing to do homosexuality. We are not homosexual, I’m male to female transsexual and I have been illgally married to my husband and we will married 14 years on February 16th. Also I have been at the same job for 16 years and paying taxes. Is that normal enough for you ingnorent Bible yellers. However, it does not matter if you are homosexual, bisexual or whatever God is love not hate only ignorent people can hate.
GWEN IS LOVED AND DEARLY MISSED.SHE DID NOT DESERVE TO DIE THE WAY SHE DID.SHE DID NOT GET TO LIVE A FULL LIFE LIFE.EVEN THOUGH I DID NOT KNOW HER HER STORY TOUCHED MY HEART.IT MAKES ME CRY TO KNOW THAT SOMEONES LIFE WAS TAKEN JUST BECAUSE THE WERE GAY.IT IS NOT RIGHT AND NOT FAIR TO THE PEOPLE WHO’S LIFES WERE TAKEN.IT WAS NOT FAIR TO GWEN.SHE WILL BE IN HER FAMILY’S HEART AND EVERYONE WHO HEARD OR READ ABOUT HER STORY.TO THE GUYS WHO TOOK HER LIFE I JUST WANT YOU TO KNOW YOU TOOK HER LIFE FOR NO REASON AND THAT IS SOMETHING YOU WILL ALWAYS HAVE TO LIVE WITH. REST IN PEACE GWEN YOU ARE NOT FORGOTTEN.
I DID NOT MEAN TO CALL HER A BOY SHE WAS A BEAUTIFUL GIRL AND SHE WILL BE MISSED DEARLY BY HER FAMILY AND FRIENDS AND TO ALL WHO HEARD HER STORY AND THOSE 4 GUYS WILL BURN IN HELL. EVEN IF ITS THE LAST THING GOD DOES.
ALANA THOMAS I JUST READ ABOUT UR BROTHER AND THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THAT IF HE IS HAPPY THAT WAY THEN IT WAS JUST MENT TO B THAT WAY.AND THOSE BOYS THAT ARE SAYING THAT ABOUT HIM THE CAN GO JUMP OFF A CLIFF. REST IN PEACE GWEN!
SHE was beautiful.And you know if GWEN wanted to be remembered as GWEN then everyone on this planet should respect that. What happend to this beautiful person was NOT in anyway her fault. They beat her for 5 HOURS! just for fun! she didn’t lie! she expressed who she really was and if people can’t belive that God and Jesus would love anyone for who they are and who they want to be then why are all humans concived as normal as well! we are all diffrent and god made us the way we are! we are all beautiful and from my stand point and probably many others, GWEN was an Angel on earth. god be with Gwen and her family.
this story actully makes me afride of modren day… i myself am a transgendered teen…. i just turned 16 and this story and her ispired me but yet at the same time, make me scared…. because of “lida” i have the cofidence to be who i am and not let anything stop me…
Keep the faith dear you will get what you want or should I say need. Being post-up TS I can tell you it’s not easy but it’s not as bad as some might say.
Leah
Toni Dont be afraid of who you are. There are those people that are ignorant and do not understand BUT as long as you have a sense of self you will be victorious..Much Love and Respect, Jennifer
that creature should have told the guys what it actually was before going out on the date. it would be alive then.
They killed it because they got pissed off to find out they were forced into a homosexual act.So thats a good lesson to all transgender liers
Highlander
There should be no ignorant people in your family because got all the ingnorance. I’m transgender not homosexual, one has nothing to do with the other.
You absolutely disgust me. Calling Gwen ‘It?’ She wanted to be treated as normally as possible, and that was being a female for her! Do not sit here and act is she was not a person, because she was more of one than you will ever be. And are you implying that it’s a good thing Gwen’s life was ended, and she was doing people a favor? Nobody has the right to murder any human-being, and you seriously need help if you think that.
Homosexualism is same sex relations. Transsexualism is a person that feels they are the opposite gender. As far as sexual orientation that is 100% different from transsexualism. There are no transgender liars. Just transgender people who are looking to be accepted by society and just are afraid to come out. I wish the best for the family and my prayers are with them. I wish I could have met Gwen. She is my trans sister
Highlander, Gwen is not an it or that creature Gwen is a woman and you say she or her. Besides someone that calls himself Highlander shouldn’t be ignorant or racist or prejudice and so on to anyone.
highlander you are one of many ignorant people who think like that, who I know is set in your ways. It wouldn’t have mattered if she told them or not because people kill other people every day over race, gender, religion, ect. People who are black went through complete hell back in the 1000′s and beyond because they were simply black. Because their skin was not fair and white. But they did’n hesitate to bring them over here from Africa to the U.S. and they didn’t come here willingly. And then they want to rape women and young women because they can. And later tell them to go back to Africa?! Uh uh its just wrong to kill someone because of whatever and whomever they are. I was raised as a preachers kid but my mom or father never looked down or spoke badly of anyone because of how different they are. I actually support any gay or transgenderd person. People are people we are all made up the same. We all bleed red, we all cry clear tears, we all stink like crap when we don’t bathe, we look different but we all breathe the same. True enough those men had a right to be angry, because they were deceived but they DO NOT have the right to put their hands on someone because of that. We don’t have to like each other hold hands and sing koom by yah but we do have to respect each other as human beings…Oh and I am a straight, beautiful, successful, black woman and proud of it! I just wish for one day people like you could walk in other peoples shoes who walk this walk of criticism, hatred, and scorn, everyday. You sir need a dose of humility and empathy.
LISTEN UP EVERYONE..GOD LOVES U AND EVERYONE ELSE..STOP THE HATRED GWEN WAS A BEAUTIFUL YOUNG LADY TRAPPED IN A GUYS BODY..AND ITS TOTALLY UNDERSTANDABLE WHAT HER PURPOSE WAS IN THIS WORLD..SHE WAS A SACRAFICE AND NOW LOOK HOW MUCH HAS CHANGE THERE IS NOW A LAW OUT AND MANY PEOPLE POOR THEIR HEARTS OUT AGAINST THIS CRIME THIS DUMB GUYS COMMITED ONLY BECAUSE THEY HAD BASICALLY NO LOVE IN THEIR HEART MAN BE ON HERE TO THANK GWEN FOR CHANGING THE WORLD DONT CRITICIZE HER SHE IS LIKE EVERYONE ELSE AND IF U DO NOT UNDERSTRAND THAT UR A RETARD SERIOUSLY..LET HER SOULD REST IN PEACE..STOP THE NEGATIVITY!!! MUCH LOVE~JERIKA!
A SACRIFICE??? omg Are you serious? This should not happen to anyone no matter what the cost is! Wow what law exactly is out because these guys were NOT charged with a Hate crime and that is exactly what this was!!! So I dont know exactly what the hell was going through yourmind when you wrote that. People are seriously oblivious. I’m not transgender BUT Im pissed off! The things that are being spewed out of peoples mouths are hideous! I would not have the heart to just turn the other cheek. I have to get off here before I say something really bad and really offend you ignorant people… Much love and Respect Always to Gwen, Leah and Toni and every single Transgender person out there!!!!
Thank you Jennifer, Yes this should not have happened to her, but it did and we all who are for her have to spread the knowledge about transgenderism to all who are ignorant. Giving them the knowledge. Love you Kristi Batess you are a beautiful person yourself.
I can’t believe how stupid ppl can be. Gwen was so beautiful no matter what gender , she knew what she wanted an went for it. She stood up for who she was an shame on you ppl who find it bad, She passed in a horrible way no one deserves that type of torture.. SHAME ON YOU
REST IN PEACE…… Thew movie is very touching and I was so disgusted by these asses.She was so beautyfull and she is in the hands of god.
R.I.P Gwen That Was So Wrong And Unacceptable…They Deserve To Die For What They Did 2U…ISend Wishes And Kisses 2 The Family Of Gwen She Was A Very Cute N Sweet Person. I Thank Lifetime For Such A Movie.
Sylvia,
After years and years of seeing Gwens story on Lifetime, I still have it saved on my DVR. She was a beautiful young woman and I feel that she is a more beautiful angel. God makes no mistakes. It is we as humans who make the mistakes. Even Gods creatures obay his laws. What makes us so judgemental? I would have loved to meet her, even just to see her from a distance. Gwen was true to who she was. I wish more of us was that way. May God bless you and your family and Gwen. He has her now. No worries.
BEHOLD YAWAY IS COMING SOON TOO SET YOU ALL STRAIT ABOUT GOD
DID YOU KNOW THAT GOD IS A TEACHER AND HE IS NOT EVIL AND HAS UNDERSTANDING DO YOU…
To everyone that has something whether or not it be for or against Gwen…. God is the only judge here; let him deal with whatever happens to people on their judgement day…. We as humans just need to llove and respect one another…. Those who commited the murder will pay for what they did and God will judge Gwen for her decisions as well. That does not mean that I am saying she was a bad person but once again…. Who is the only judge here???? GOD! And for goodness sake if you are going to type hihs name out at least give him some respect and CAPITALIZE IT!!!!!!
The lack of understanding a condition that happens in the womb is so horribly apparent in this case. I hope that since this has happened a few years ago and a movie followed that just maybe those who have such hatred towards people that are born differently just might (I know wishful thinking) start to become educated. It is easy to be born as your body parts indicate just imagine the feelings of a person like Gwen who felt like a woman born in a man’s body and it happened to you. How would you deal with it?
I just watched the movie dedicated to the memory of Gwen on Lifetime and was so outraged by the results of the trial. I can’t even begin to comprehend how those men could do such horrible things to Gwen because she was simply being who she was. I was so touched by her story and I believe that she impacted more people in her short life than many do in a lifetime and will continue to do so even now that she has moved on to another life.
While I know that words are really not of much help, please know that Gwen, her family and friend are all in my prayers. I wish you all true peace and happiness in your life, and believe it will be attained with your special angel watching over you.
I cannot fathom why some people think they have a right to judge the life of another. Do we really not understand that we are ALL children of God, and each of us are totally unique?
Gwen was in the unique position of being able to truly understand both sides of life. I believe that that made her much more wise than most people…and completely beautiful both inside and out.
Terri S.
Ohio
Look: We can make excuses and say what WE want. But GOD made Eddie not Gwen. Eddie chose to live in sin and let the devil control his soul. He lived in sin and died a sinner. There are no sinners in heaven. He is not a martyr, he is a boy who was ill and lost his life. People cannot think it is okay to do what they want. You are not able to change what GOD has done. You cannot say this is right. I feel sympathy that EDDIE lost his life and for the pain of his mother. But I have the most sympathy for all those who truly believe that it is okay to be gay, or a rapist or do anything that is against God. I was a living the gay life once, but I knew in my heart it was not right and I stopped living like that. We have to remember that this life is temporary. The life after this is eternal. If you think Gods love accepts evil then you are only believing what YOU want, and really do not know GOD at all. If I have offended anyone please accept my apology. The truth hurts……get help and think about what GOD wants and not what you want. The devil is using you,and to ignore the truth shows how lost you really are. You will make excuses for your actions, but the bible clearly states homosexuality is wrong.
Transexualism has nothing to do with homosexuality check your facts before you open your mouth.
u say u lived da gay life once but yet u call ppl sinners wat does dat make u….u r who u r n god did make her as eddie but he created her as gwen she was created 2 let ppl know it ok 2 b different dis was a test from god 2 treat ppl how u want 2 b treated no matter who or what they r n those men failed n so did u…STOP HATE CRIME….B WHO R U N LOVE URSELF…rip gwen
God didn’t write the BIBLE. These ignorant people did. They twist everything God stands for. The ones who murdered Gwen will be taken care of by God and these ignorant people like Gina will be standing in front of God being judged by him. Gwen wasn’t homosexaul. she was a straight female. For a person to ignore the truth that God made a them transsexual is wrong. My prayers are with Gwen and her family.
what she was doing was sick but i wouldn’t bother me i would accept her/him for who they want to go by gwen was a wounderful girl i watched her movie the other day and it broke my heart to see that they dragged her by the hair and beat her for five hours and then the defendants lawyer wants to blame it on society thats bull society can tell me to jump off a cliff that in no way forces me to listen the deal with these four young men were showing no mercy they had sexual encounters with a male that they believed to be a female that would shake me but not to the point of murdering her thats a hate crime and not one of them were convicted of a hate crime
I watched this movie several times and it is a very sad movie however they cleaned up the movie quite a bit. I have read about Gwen and she put herself in situations that she knew was wrong. Ok she was born a boy and wanted to become a girl that is ok however be honest about it before you have sexual activities with someone. I am not saying it is right that they killed her. Be honest with yourself and others around you we all are different people. Lying,cheating,stealing and doing things we all know are wrong you will have consequences and Gwens consequences was death sad to say.
Those young boys probably came from broken homes and wasn’t taught right in the first place. Now those boys now men will have to suffer each and everyday that they killed another humanbeing. That cannot be good on anyones mind. Being Gwens Mom had to be tough. Nobody knows what they would do in that situation unless they were living in the persons shoes. She eventually accepted him the way he was and loved him for who he was. She tried to teach him that certain things you just shouldn’t do however with him being a teenager he rebeled. The movie was great even though it was cleaned up 95% it still makes people think that no matter how you are born you need to be proud of what God has giving you. If you are not happy being a boy or a girl and it is so deeply hurting you that you need to dress and act like the opposite sex then do so it is your life but don’t ever act like somebody you are not it will eventually get you into trouble. We are all born differently and need to accept ourselves and love ourselves for who we are.
I watched the video. Gwen is not a martyr – Gwen is a very sad statistic because of trying to be something she was not. You can’t have it both ways. She was a boy trying to be a regular girl with regular boys. This she was not. When the discovery of her anatomy was made emotions flared. Homophobic terror out of control! Real simple! Real sad! She was a beautiful girl who should have had some parental control. I’m just saying….. I will watch the movie to better understand this tragedy. But again she was not a martyr!
Lydia Shay I will pray for your soul. You are heartless. Your the one that should of had parental control. And yes she is a martyr.
I’m glad she’s dead. Not only is she ugly, she’s UGG-LY!
Wow, you are one cold hearted female dog! Karma will come for you. Jealous much?
The only person who is UGG-LY here…is…(surprise)–YOU!
You are a disgusting excuse for a human being.
I am watching “Girl Like Me” and I have loved this movie ever since the first time it aired. I have seen it many times and everytime i can’t help but cry. This time i just had the urge to research her and she was so beautiful. I hate someone would do that to anyone under any circumstances including being transgendered. I will do anything I can to stop hate of any kind. I’m really sorry about the loss of her. I couldn’t stand seeing the sentencing of the people that were apart of it, the deserved way longer. RIP girl
Some nerve. People who lash out when it comes to sexuality ususally have things they are already hiding, and cannot come to terms with.
A totally straight person is sincere…stable, as Joey was with Gwem.
He may have been mad since he did not know her gender at first…but he saw her face value as a woman that she was.
The girl that was jealous and talked the guys into the rage sgould be jailed as an accesory if not already…she was a real bitch.
God is love, not religion….so much religion is man-made, God makes no mistakes. Things such as sexuality and race are not choices…but you are crucified due to a race war that suppresses sexuality and favors white supremacy.
Those guys should have gotten life in prison, or death.
How dare them use their own insecurities to take a life???
I bet they will really “come out” in jail…except with men, not the woman that Gwen was.
To all of you religion-based people..you glamourized murder, adultery, sex without being married…please. So hypocritcal.
Get real.
God Bless you, Gwen, as well as her family.
Just watched this movie on lifetime ! Just happened to start reading comments ! Its no wonder people get killed ! Everybody thinks the know the answer ! Weather u read the bible or not and believe what is written therein ! It is not our place to judge what others may or may not be ! But were to have good judgement of right n wrong ! We are all guilty of judging and as 1 person wrote….. saved by grace ! Personally I believe that Gwens actions were of whom she believed she was ! However she was lured to the place where her life was taken ! Someone wrote that god made this world and us too so we all must be who we are ! That person obviously didnt read the whole thing ! Theres a small part where God cast Lucifer down to earth and he is the ruler of this world for a time ! Having said just abit on this, The bottom line is that weather Gwen was a boy or a girl she didnt deserve to be murdered ! That is the real crime here ! While you all continue to argue over petty things u should step back and take a real good look in the mirror ! Now ask yourself….. Who am I ? My condolences to the family for your loss !
I just watched this movie for the second time tonight on LMN first I would like to ask why was the girl not charged? the one who set the whole thing up by calling Gwen to the party? She is the one that egg’d it on. Also to all of the negative posters Who are you to judge and since the bible has been raised many times in here remember what Jesus said “He who without sin throw the first stone” No matter what your gender is no matter who you are murder is murder and its people like the negative posters here that feeds and starts society’s hate. Love is unconditional. How many men and women out there are transgender and have had the complete operation? Love is love I believe what it comes down to is that these people who fall in love with a transgender without knowing feel peer preasure and become humiliated because of how society is. A vicious circle and unfortunantely Gwen was murdered for it. Rest in Peace Gwen you are in heaven an angel. May God bless your family here on earth.
I feel bad cause I found out about Gwen about a year ago from a Lifetime movie based on Gwen. What happened to her is one of the most horrific and devestating things that has ever happened. It makes me sick that people can act in a violent way like that and kill someone that was a good person. Gwen wasnt like everyone else and that freaked out a lot of stupid closed mind people. I know that the people that killed her will REST IN HELL where they belong!
I watched the movie tonite and i watch it whenever it comes on…. My heart hurts when i heard they beat her for five hours… I don’t know how people can be like that…. She was a beautiful lady… I saw her pictures today on her page she was beautiful person inside and out… It was awesome how her grandpa supported her… And i just want to say my heart goes out to the family…
Gwen was beautiful, inside and out. People judge because they are insecure about themselves. Male or Female I believe there is a little bit of Gwen in all of us, some are just too scared to admit it. You can’t help who you are or who you love. life is what you make it, and Gwen knew how to make hers. She wasn’t scared of who she was and that is brave. My heart aches for her family, but from this tragedy comes greatness, and I think Gwen would have rather have made a change then to have hidden who she was. Rest in Piece beautiful Angel!
Gwen was a beautiful person. She is in a place where no one can hurt her. Her entire Family is so strong. Lots of love to all of you.
My heart goes out to Gwens family for their loss. As I learned from the lifetime movie of Gwens life it broke my heart knowing such hatred is out there. Gwen was a beautiful person I hope who ever did this to her get what they deserve and more. Hope they rot in hell because only evil can do this to another human beign. God bless the Araujo family!!
I just watched this movie tonite and my heart went out to Gwen and her family. She was beautiful. It was disturbing to read the one comment that disrespected this family. Attitudes like that threaten people and in some cases kill them. Gwen died and is in a better place where no one will hurt her, where she is free and no one to judge. It is sad that people persecute others with bible. Who are we to judge? As I have heard many times before, when you point at someone take a look at where that other finger is pointed to. I have children and I am raising them to respect others regardless of ethnic background, religious beliefs, or sexual orientation. I tell them to treat others as you wish to be treated. Why is that so hard for people? Everyone has a right to live their life and love and be needed. it may be 2010 but we still live in backwards times when a person’s color of skin or sexual orientation becomes an issue. I say, let people live their lives and concentrate on your own happiness and needs. Everyone is unique that is what makes us an individual. Prayers for the family. Rest in peace Gwen.
I’m sorry . I just advice the Adaujo family to pray everyday and ask God our lord to forgive the people who this this , sounds weird but if your family wants to see your beautiful daughter Gwen in heaven then you have to forgive and let go so God could take care of them and you guys will have the gates to heaven and see Gwen again, She suffered but now She couldn’t be in better hands and place . May god bless you all.
JUST WANTED TO SAY THAT THIS STORY HAS HUNTED ME,ALL THE TIME GWEN COMES TO MY MIND ITS LIKE SHE VISITS ME WITH A SMILE ON HER FACE LETTING ME KNOW NOT TO WORRY,BEING A BIT DIFFERENT MAKES ME BETTER MAKES ME STAND OUT FROM THE REST AND WHO LIKES TO BE WHAT OTHERS WANT YOU TO BE? JUST BE YOUR SELF AND LOVE YOUR SELF CAUSE WE ALL GODS CREATURES AND HE WILL NEVER JUDGE US FOR WHAT WE ARE CAUSE HE MADE US TO BE THIS WAY…UNIQUE!
IF WE ALL LOOKED THE SAME ACT THE SAME THIS WORLD WILL BE A PRETTY BORING WORLD.:)
R.I.P GWEN
I just saw the documentary about Gwen’s murder and I just can’t get it out of my head. I feel so sorry for that poor, poor girl. She wasn’t doing anything wrong. She just wanted to experience the kind of intimacy and acceptance that we all crave as human beings. There is no excuse for what those boys did to her. Sure, they definitely had a right to be angry- but to beat and strangle that poor girl in such a brutal, savage manner…It’s not just inexcusable. It’s inhuman.
God bless you, Gwen. We will never forget you.
the men who did this to her are evil cruel bastards and do not deserve to be living.
I get soooooo sick when I see the movie. The way she was so badly treated. Especially the way she died. Shame on them. I don’t know her….But I love her and who she was.
Im watching the movie and i feel so horrible that there are such cruel people in this world.. May you rest in peace Gwen!
My prayers go out to the family…everytime I see watch a girl like me it brakes my heart….what they did to gwen was sooo wrong.idk how they could live with there self for what they did to her there’s no reason to hate someone for who they r who is anyone to judge what’s right or wrong God is the only one to judge & he don’t like ugly n they will have to answer to him for what they did….R.I.P GWEN u r always loved never forgotten
you know he did not deserve to die the way he did but if he got everything cut off it would be aviod it a girl like me gwen Araújo
im flattering you sold your son life story on lifetime but noone cares now who he was he did deserve to die he died in vain in the hand”s of hater”s that found out he had a dick.
he did not deserve to die he died in vain by the hands of people that found out he had a dick between his legs sorry
Dear Sylvia,
I am very sorry for your loss of your beautiful Gwen and I am so sorry that two evil people murdred her…. I wish I could of known her even though I did not I still miss her and love her… May she R.I.P… People should not be murdred for their believes stand up for what is right…. People who kill people for being differnt should not be judged by the world, but only judged by our God we have no place to judge them….
I am sorry but it is narrow minded people like you that are wrong with our world today. God has nothing to do with someone’s genetic make up it is science not religion. Your DNA and Chromosomes make up are what make you physically a boy or a girl…it’s which sperm cell gets there first not what God decides to send the stork with. Come on people get a clue!!
The part of the bible that you all seem to forget is that “God” loves all creatures…and he tells you not to judge other unless you yourself wish to be judged. No one has the right to pass judgment on another person and if you were such a “God” following person you would know this. Have you ever considered that “God” may have put these wonderful and caring people on this earth to try and educate and open up the minds of people like you? That this is a challenge not for them, but for you to see how you will treat and except others and care for them whether they are different or not, or will you pass judgment and condemn them? Just remember one day you will be judged by the higher power of “God” and he will be looking at everything you have done with your life good and bad…including the passing of unearned judgment on others. What makes you feel like you have this right? “God†has told us that he wants us all to live in his shadow and by his example…so I will say to you again “God†loves and excepts all creatures…so shouldn’t you?
I applaud Gwen Araujo for standing up and not being ashamed of the beautiful intelligent young women that she was! And to her family for their understanding and sharing of her story to help other hopefully be as accepting and understanding one day. You will always be in my thoughts and prayers!!
you know i’m 16 and all through my younger years i always had questions…i wondered what i would be, who i would be. But when your 4 and people tell you “Be your self!” you kind of think to yourself, who else can you be other than yourself? weather it be a little boy who likes pink and likes to dress up, or a little girl that loves blue and plays with toy fire trucks instead of Barbies…we are each individuals. Individuality is beautiful and Carrie, i belive that your right…no one has the right to be judged for who they are or just because they were born! we all have rights and God made us the way we are. he loves us all! and to people who judge and hate and say jesus hates people who live the way they want…learn what jesus taught! he died for everyone and god makes human beings the way they are! so god bless carrie and Gwen!
Stop typing in all caps, it looks ridiculous.
IT BOTHERS YOU THAT MUCH WELL KISS MY ASS!!!!!!