I came here because I listened to his story on Mormon Stories podcast. What an incredible young man. I am glad he is still with us and I wish his the very best life has to offer. Bless you, Matt.
As a BYU graduate and in light of this week's painful comments, I have listened again to this address and want to say I would be proud to have had Matt represent my graduating class as valedictorian. We do not all have to be the same and share the same experiences in order to be able to identity with each other, love, and support each other. That's empathy. That's discipleship. That is what ought to make BYU unique.
The speech was fine. Distracting. But fine. However, Matty has since used the platform that BYU gave him to smear the church, it's doctrines, and leaders. He openly lives in apostasy.
trust me Chris Layton if there's any place that uses metaphorical muskets against their students you can rest assured it's definitely BYU. You have more wounded (mentally and physically) students there shot by faculty and students than anywhere else I've pursued my academic endeavours
I’m not here to “feel better” exactly, but I did want to hear the speech for myself to know how to respond to others who have strong opinions but have not seen this or listened to Elder Holland’s talk.
@@comradelulz7455 stop taking the metaphor out of context. So tired of seeing this. Straight out lies! Did you actually listen to the talk? If so you completely missed his message.
Yep. It's me. 😭 I didn't go to BYU, but I went to a similar school, actually a Bible college, for a very conservative fundamentalist Christian denomination. My first roommate as a freshman is a lesbian. The second got pregnant (out of wedlock). I struggled with my mental health and the responses to my struggle. I was so deeply indoctrinated that I couldn't, maybe wouldn't, see what is now so evident to me looking back. After my divorce (don't get me started on the expectations that kept me trapped in an abusive marriage), I joked with my ex about being done with men and switching teams. He flipped out. I do understand. Thing is, we both knew the truth in that moment, but he was terribly mistaken to think our marriage had been a lie. I didn't know. I really didn't. I couldn't. It was my journey with my daughter and her sexuality that finished opening my eyes. Even not having a good understanding of LGBT terminology, I "knew" my roommate is gay before she did. I "knew" my daughter had a different type of interest in girls from a young age, same with one of her best friends. Either God's love for her, for His creations, is greater than my own or He isn't God. His mom sounds amazing!! Matt was extremely brave!
I am sure you helped someone that was sitting in the audience who was feeling desperate, you may have even saved a life. You have a full life ahead of you, filled with love companionship and adventure. Love is love.
WOW! So so brave. Matt you are a TRUE leader. I am blown away by this and I feel so proud of you and I don’t even know you. I left the church years ago but I was raised in it and I KNOW how much courage this takes! Your loved anf accepted and good enough and don’t let the fear of Brain washed people ever make you feel any differently. So inspiring
How on earth did Holland think this was a divisive speech?! Unbelievable Edit: I just realized this TH-cam account is the man giving the speech so I want to let you know, Matt, that your speech was beautiful, uplifting, inclusive and inspirational. It was the opposite of divisive. I hope you have an amazing life and live it the way you find best-- whether that is by adhering to the strict guidelines the church has for its queer members or not ❤ You seem like such a sweet man and I know you will continue to make the lives of those around you better.
Hello Matt, Im from Santiago of Chile, Im a member of the Church of Jesus Christ too, and was imposible to stop feelling a fantastic emotion about your speech. Thank you for your example and your words. Sometimes we think that we are alone but thats not true. Thank you!!
No están solos. A pesar de que sientes deseos de estar con un hombre, testifico k podrás tener una vida llena de felicidad y gozo, casado con una mujer. Dios no nos dará mandamientos k no podemos cumplir
You are an AMAZING person! So incredibly brave and such an inspiration to so many. I hope many more will lead more authentic lives and not commit suicide like your friend. That really got me on the Ellen show! I hope people become more accepting and compassionate toward anyone who is different than themselves. People can be horribly cruel. Thank you for being you. (From an ex-mormon.)
Holland was offended by that? Your speech is G-rated and I'm sure it brought comfort to many LGBT+ individuals and their loved ones to know they are not alone.
The church is more than Holland. It's a worldwide church. And although I wasn't a fan of this kid getting singled out, the speech was distracting, and unintentionally became about him. Matty has since Used the platform that BYU gave him to nationally criticize the church and it's doctrines and leaders. He will probably be ex'd within a few years
@@scrub3359 Bingo! There’s an excellent quote from Samuel Johnson (a writer from the 1700’s) related to that, “Fraud and falsehood only dread examination. Truth invites it.” If something is true and factual, examination will be urged, because that will lead to more realizing it is indeed factual. If a team of scientists just completed a series of experiments that confirmed their hypothesis, they will ask others to do their own experiments with the hypothesis, because they’re certain that any experiment will lead to the validation of said hypothesis. If a cult leader/religious organizer says that their theories are correct and that their hypothesis was proven true, but they say in the very next breath “there’s no need for any more analysis. I have proven it’s true” you know something is fishy.
Some people will always hate what they do not understand, and by situations that do not effect them directly. Your cousin is awesome, and his actions will have larger effects going forward than he may even understand. Brilliantly done as well.
@Tony Touch He's the valedictorian of a college founded in a historically bigoted and anti-gay religion. He is not making a statement for himself, he is making it for LGBT.
I had to watch this, after having seen your episode on Mormon Stories Podcast. This talk will definitely be a transformative event sending ripples through space/time for decades. Thanks for being you & being candid with the citizens of Earth!
This warmed my heart. Thank you for taking the opportunity to come out so publicly. You may very well could have impacted hopeless audience members, giving them strength and hope for their own journey. Also, so happy that you mother could witness you graduate and open up about who you are.
I am rewatching your speech to help me during this hard time. After Holland's comments, I've been struggling. I've been speaking up for my LGBTQ+ community, came out publicly on Facebook, wear pride pins every Sunday on my white shirt, fulfilling my calling as 2nd Councilor to the Elders Quorum, and talk to others about my story. But Holland's words made me feel like all my efforts have gone backwards. I've feel like those who don't understand us will now not listen to us. I've spoken to a few individuals that believe that being gay is a weakness. I told them that its been a gift to be open hearted and learn to love those that are different that others would consider the norm. But listening to this again is helping me out. I think its wonderful that you wore your Stole of Honor for Harry Fisher. This is who you are, I am who I am, we are who we are no matter what others say. I hope others don't give up and that BYU Alumni don't give up on themselves and celebrate who they are. We need to stand by together more than ever.
What did Holland say? I am still fairly new to the church (almost 2 years), and thankful to have had a wide world of life experience before joining. I am open minded and empathic so I do not tolerate hate toward others just because leaders (of any kind) want to keep people compliant. I am sorry you are struggling. You are not alone and many will be there for you if you ever decide to reach out.
@@stephaniepappas5240 I appreciate it. Holland had a lovely talk to the BYU conference until he brought up Matthew Easton's speech saying that it was not right to share your sexual orientation and what other divisiveness would there be due to him coming out. But he really didn't see the great outcome that came from Matthew's speech. He also had his speech approved by the BYU administration. You can see Matthew Easton's story and what led him to do this speech on this video... th-cam.com/video/YfsyFraqZyY/w-d-xo.html
Are you telling me there was no backlash until 2 years later? I wish Holland didn’t ever say anything but, I’m surprised that it wasn’t an instant response. Why now?
I am 67 and had a great career with IBM. I am gay and LDS... I even have regained my Temple Recommend after 30 years for which I was traveling globally and had no time for regular church attendance because I traveled on Sundays...Now in retirement I am active and love my church and proud of who I am and what I have accomplished. I know God loves me and I will soon be standing before our Godhead and say, "I am your son..."
God has only one Son, Jesus Christ and He and the Father have always been one. The gospel of Joseph Smith is a false gospel and the Jesus preached is a false Jesus. Man can never be God and homosexuals will not inherit eternal life. No one is born homosexual and I firmly believe that the Holy Spirit can free you and anyone else that identifies as LGBT just as He can free drunks, fornicators, or anyone else from anything.
@@veritas8575 No. Jesus is God's ONLY begotten Son. But Jesus came to bring MANY SONS to glory. Don't forget Adam was called a Son of God also. The Scripture is truth, your voice is lacking. I follow Jesus Christ, not liars.
A lot of us BYU alums are revisiting this talk. It's absolutely astonishing the beauty and courage this talk embodies in only a few minutes, especially when compared to the 40 minutes of thinly veiled divisiveness and hate delivered by a "special witness of Christ". The irony of that label...
That special witness of Christ is called by God to give us guidance in these days. So do you really think God would just allow one of his apostles to create divisiveness and hate within the church?
Now 5.5 years later I finally got to see this speech and I couldn't help cheering and clapping in my home office. I want to send this video to everyone who said Matt was "commandeering the podium" (Jeffrey R Holland's words) or making the speech about himself - in reality, it's the most inclusive, affirming, jubilant speech ever. I spoke at another graduation two years later and I wish my speech was this good.
An amazing speach! The courage, vulnerability, and self defferenation it takes to dare greatly! This is what the commandment, " love thy neighbor as thyself looks like!" BYU, choose a significant individual as Matt Eastmond to give such a pointant address for all! A Brilliant moment for BYU, and the World!
Bravo! As a '90 BYU grad and father of 4, I simply cannot imagine this ever happening then. To that I say, "it's about time'!" Well done Matt and thank you for your courage.
When has celebrating sin ever been ok. I dont celebrate my sins or any sin. We try to overcome sinful tendencies and not try to embrace and make excuses for sin.
Try 1971 on for size. Left the church because there was ZERO support for anyone outside the norm. Just started to allow Blacks into the church later in that decade. So as the winds of change, or should we say corrections goes on. Bravo to the church for allowing free speech. All faiths should be treated as a guide and not so much a ruler of our lives. We will all find our path through living the good example.
You are a brave and incredible man. It’s people like you that make me hopeful for the future. When I was in college in the 90s in Utah, it would be unthinkable to see such bravery.
@@gameshowguy2000 Courage & Bravery is when a soldier puts his life on the line to protect his fellow soldiers from a grenade attack. Your sexual preferences have ZERO to do with courage or bravery.
@@Unit285 Really?! Try saying THAT to the brave GLBT soldiers serving right now, despite Trump's ban, which is being fought in the courts as we speak. YOU are REALLY hurting GLBT people's feelings right now. STRIKE ONE.
I don’t know you, but I got a little emotional watching this. Congratulations on so many levels! I wish you the very best and am proud of you for sharing yourself and your testimony with the world.
I want you to know that your words are valuable and your courage is admirable. After somentime spent in prayer, I feel strongly that the hurrful words of disapproval given at the byu conference earlier this week were not from God. I cant imagine the pain and dissonance you must feel if you wonder if those words were from heavenly father. You arent alone, we are feeling that pain with you, and your work to restore the fullness and establish Zion(which requires all of us) is appreciated.
I'm sure this isn't the first time you've heard this and I surely hope it won't be the last, but you are such an inspiration. I'm bisexual and am going to BYU-I in 5 days. I've been scared since my decision of where I was going, but after Holland's recent talk at BYU, I've been down right petrified. I've never felt more alone than how I feel scrolling through the comments of the video of his talk. Comments spreading hate towards people like me and saying that people like me need to be fixed. But hearing your speech reminded me that I'm not alone, I don't need to be fixed, and my future is still bright. I'm still scared, but at least now I know there's a light at the end of the tunnel. So, just, thank you. Thank you for your bravery. You've given courage to those without it and I hope you know how much of a difference you have made.
When I graduated there with a Poly Sci degree, I just cannot imagine this happening. Congrats on your graduation. And good luck. Today, I am inspired to consider what I am celebrating!!
Much love to you and your mama, Matt, and sending prayers of peace for both of you. Thank you for your courage. I am reminded daily--by the tattoo I wear to remember them--of all the LGBTQ kids who give up and end their lives too soon, before they ever get to enjoy true happiness living life as who they were born to be. Stay strong!! There's an entire community out here waiting to embrace you!
I have at least 6 gay LDS friends, none of whom experienced the overt hatred they had been direly warned of. As a gay Roman Catholic, I was routinely terrorized by outsiders' graphic tales of The Church's abuse and excommunication of LGBTs. The majority of those tales were simply urban legends; the remainder were grossly exaggerated. The entirely of my abuse as it relates to The RCC (and my husband's as it relates to the LDS) consists of evil people - with no representative capacity within The Church - who gleaned some twisted joy from inflicting terror upon me, regaling me of The Church's hatred and eventual condemnation of me. When I "came out," The Church's response was essentially a shrug and "Let's get back to feeding some hungry people." It was then that I realized that, far from simply being mean-spirited busybodies, my tormentors had been evil sadists practicing a particularly cruel form of political manipulation.
"I didn't encounter it so no one did!" You are lucky. You don't have to dismiss the troubles of others because you were surrounded by kindness. However, we must acknowledge that others are not, and that the church has contributed millions of dollars in funding to stop gay marriage. Acknowledge evil wherever it may be. Do not dismiss it because you have not experienced it personally. This is blindness to the suffering of your fellows.
Are your 6 gay LDS friends in Utah? I can assure you, it’s terrible here. We have a huge amount of teen suicide here. As a former Mormon with several gay family members, I’ve seen the pain and suffering they have gone through. Shame on you for the “well I haven’t seen it so it’s not true” attitude.
@@mimat1427 1) I never said that there is no gay-centric pain and suffering inflicted by people who claim to represent the Church. 2) You have no authority to foist righteous "Shame on me," so shut your hateful trap. 3) Like every bigmouthed busybody, I note that you think that your tertiary, anectdotal "experience" somehow outweighs my REAL, LIVED experience. 4) EVERY gay kid I've EVER met who contemplated self-destruction only did so because he was afraid of the horror stories that awful people insisted on terrorizing him with, not any actual experienced mysery, myself included. 5) I bet MOST of the 25 "thumbs up" my original comment received were from gay people with REAL EXPERIENCE in this issue.
@@samcombs9121 I NEVER said that it didn't exist because I never saw it - stop trying to have BOTH sides of the conversation. What I said was that most gay men that I know were terrified by tales of social condemnation which turned out overwhelmingly to not be true, but instead some kind of sick Aesop-style morality tale designed to scare us out of our perceived "rebeliousness" and into alignment with social norms that "they" prefered. We all spent our childhoods purposely frightened into behavioral compliance with everything from medical horror stories to Santa Claus. "When you lie, your nose will grow. Making a face will cause your face to stick like that. Not bathing causes bugs to eat into your brain. Sitting too close to the TV will wreck your eyes. You will drown if you swim less than 30 minutes after eating." We were told everything from "You will have to wear diapers your whole life" to "your landlord will throw you out without warning." The difference is that it's the gay men themselves - and their straight "allies" - who are doing the lying. Wanna bet that MOST of the 25 "thumbs up" my original comment received were from gay people with REAL EXPERIENCE in this issue?
It’s disheartening to read comments. Why is no one ever happy with anything? I’m sad to see everyone nit picking this. For those of us who didn’t have the courage to come out when we were at BYU, this is nice to see. I’m happy for this.
@simone5239 And yet you are the one who hatefully reduces love and attraction down to sex. If it isn't your problem, then shut the fuck up. I can't help what crosses your mind when you see others who are different from yourself.
Matt said in an interview that the First Presidency members were supportive and "happy for him," but that he found out that Elder Holland was livid and called the speech selfish
Matt, I felt the spirit very strong by your speech. Be a leader in our church, and help us find a path forward as a church to more fully incorporate the LGBTQ+ community! You are not flawed, you are a strong child in a wonderful kingdom. Best of luck in your future endeavors, and go Cougs!
Na, I just hope the best for the church as we move forward into the future. There is an evergrowing presence of LGBTQ people in the church and to just ignore them and call them all sinners is clearly not the approach to take. It would be one thing if this young man celebrated gay sex in his speech, however all he celebrated is that he is Son of God. He is. If he has been faithful to his covenants as he seemed to claim he had been, then you and I are no better than he is. I appreciate your comment, though. Its a tough subject to tackle. I've probably said similar things in the past. I just hope there is a way to be a more inclusive church without changing our standards.
DanielA, if God created them that way, why are they ever growing ? It’s a choice, and there will be a civil war in the Church. I pray Eyring will not be our next Church President.
BYU approved the whole thing before hand. Common misconception: while not approving of sexual relationships, we members of the Church who have same sex attraction are not denied any blessings. The point of this life is to build your relationship with your Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, everything else is just a bonus.
@@wolfcub824 Up until recently, kids who had parents in a same sex marriage couldn't get baptized. Please don't make it seem like the church is super accepting toward the LGBTQ community, bc it's not true.
What the hell is super accepting? Two of the biggest problems with millennials is that they are not well read, and they are poorly traveled. A little R&R will help. I suggest the Horn of Africa.
@@JAMaddict Actually they always could get baptized, they just had to take an extra step in the process. It was to make sure it wouldn't rip their family apart. Our church is very family oriented, and we don't want those family relationships destroyed. It was actually put in place to protect the same sex couple family relationships.
“Extra step,” (wait until you are 18 to be allowed to be baptized and fully participate, and renounce your parents’ marriage). This was a policy that harmed so many people & families. My heart broke when my niece, turning 8, had to try to wrap her head around why she wasn’t allowed to be baptized like her friends or her older siblings, as she was so looking forward to, because one of her parents was transgender, and finally came out & transitioned (out of necessity, it saved her life), and now her parents looked like a “same-sex couple” and the church was in the process of ousting her parents (& her by extention) from the church that they had loved. I know you are doing your best to believe that it’s all wonderful & perfect & God’s will. I’m sorry if my words are hard for you to hear or reconcile. But I know children and families should not be hurt this way, and the beauty and importance of those loving family relationships are not something God denies or wants others to deny using God’s name.
If anyone is wondering why a gay member of the church would choose to come out, here are the words of Ben Schilaty, active LDS and gay: "I have been told many times to not label myself as gay and I obeyed that counsel during my 20s. I didn’t want to be gay. I didn’t want to be attracted to men. And I hated myself for having those feelings. The times when I didn’t identify as gay were the hardest, darkest times in my life. Choosing to identify as gay has been wonderful and freeing. I’m no longer trying to change something about myself that I can’t change, but I’m acknowledging the unique circumstances of my life and choosing to live in them. My beliefs and commitment to the restored gospel have not changed since I started labeling myself as gay. I live church standards as much as I always have. But what has changed is that I don’t hate myself anymore."
I don't know you but I'm so proud of you. I believe God is too. For those who criticize, don't pay them any attention, they're still stuck in the old testament. God gave us the new testament for a reason. We have a progressive God, a forgiving, loving, and accepting God. He loves you and so do I.
Matt Easton, thank you for your bravery, strength and inspiration. I forwarded this speech to a friend of mine who has been struggling with the lack of support from her family, who refuse to come to terms with the fact that she is gay, and you touched her soul too. Keep doing wonderful things ❤
All of you human rejects patting each other on the fanny and virtue signalling is just sickening to anyone who is NORMAL. FIRST OF ALL you are all liars.
So whose taking bets that byu will disqualify his diploma like they did with the guy who made the former missionary calendar. To be fair ... They should Or reinstate that guys.
Now if only the Church would find a place for him to be fully himself and allow him to be a member in good standing. Instead they condemn him to a life of celibacy and rejection of love or a life as a sinner even in a monogamous marriage with the man of his dreams and maybe even the father of children. Matt deserves all the happiness and love of any other child of God, and God does not want Matt to be frustrated, lonely and loveless in order to receive his blessings and fulfill his plan.
Naw screw that. Being gay is a choice. Look at prisoners. (Edit: this guy seems nice and he can definitely live a life with his wife and even be attracted to her with the help of God. I don't want to push him away)
Curtis Jensen who cares I am not religious but why would you want to be part of a group that does not accept you? That’s like being black but wanting to join the KKK. Just sayin
Hey Matt. Wow - guts for days for doing this. Impressive. I have a quick question: I’m seeing indicators that you vetted speech through proper channels prior to delivering it, but I’ve been misled by such “indicators” before on other topics. So I like to go straight to the horse’s mouth. I’m on your side here, and I’d like to tell people who bring up with me that I am certain you did vet this prior to delivering it. Would you mind letting us all know for sure? Thanks so much. God bless.
I’m curious. Having gone through the process myself- did you submit your speech to the board before hand? If so, was it any challenge at all to get it approved?
amy daves There is an article about this on ldsliving.com and the following quote is from this article “When Easton approached the dean's office with the idea of mentioning his sexuality in his valedictorian speech, the advice he received was "Go for it."
Well he wouln’t Be doing it in Russia, Iran, North Korea, China, Pakistan, Kashmir, Iraq, Syria, Kuwait, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Djibouti, Somalia, Uganda, Sudan,
Phenomenal, Matt. Congrats to you and to your (undoubtedly proud) family for having raised such a wise and exceptional young man. Go forward and do great things!
Brave. That was then, this is now. Just imagine a world without cold indifference, still, from the Church. LGBTQ+ will never be accepted by the Church. Your journey with a graduate program and coming out is so refreshing and celebratory.
"The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is [pride]" "Remember faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, brotherly kindness, godliness, charity, [pride], diligence." "Let the residue continue to preach from that hour, and if they will do this in all [loftiness] of heart, in [narrowness] and [pride], and long-suffering, I, the Lord, give unto them a promise that I will provide for their families; and an effectual door shall be opened for them, from henceforth." "Blessed are the [proud]: for they shall inherit the earth." The issue is not that this man feels attracted to other men. It's that he is proud of it.
Correct, members like me who find that they are attracted to their own gender are given counsel to not pursue that desire, and are able to receive the blessings of the gospel. Honestly, people who think that the GOAL in this life is marriage or sex are not really looking at the big picture. This life is a place to prepare to meet God, if he made me a lesbian, he made me that way for a reason. I don't really know why he did that to me, but I have faith it is somehow for my own good, and I will understand in the next life.
@@mewdotkai of course it isn't... Unless a person is Bisexual that concept should not even be in question. When I first came out to a church leader I was shocked by how anticlimactic it was... I was still a teenager and he really said "Ok, so what's the problem?" My jaw hit the floor.😂 Pretty much every member of the church had similar reactions... Many people expressed sympathy. But no one freaked out. I was just being over judgemental on myself, I was the bigot who didn't accept myself. It was loving church leaders who helped me come to grips with myself. I wanted to bury it deep and not deal with it, but my leaders convinced me to accept that it was a part of me. In discovering myself I bounced into the LGBT community and found after a long time that it wasn't as satisfying as I felt when I was working on accepting myself in relation to God's plan. So, I finally decided to go back to church and strengthen my relationship with my Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. I have a much more positive outlook on life now. Life isn't perfect, but who's life is? 😉 Good Night!😴
The fact that the staff of Brigham Young University approved the speech after reviewing it shows how far their faculty has come in the ability to accept your chosen lifestyle as well.
4:03 LDS pin drop......I have to give it to the LGBTQ people they are out front. 30 years ago this man would've probably been escorted off stage and blackballed from society. Goes to show you how quickly our norms can change in society. Makes me question a lot of long held opinions and beliefs.
I've been a member of this church for 42 years and I never went to BYU or any church college however after hearing Matt's speech I have no problem with Elder Holland's speech. This young man like many other BYU alumni who I have met can sound inspiring but not be inspired. Matt Easton's comment about Elder Hollands speech: “I am proud of what I did two years ago, and I stand by what I said.” Pride is still pride and that is what this young man exhibited by coming out in the manner that he did. Nothing wrong in coming out with such a challenge but to glorify it's uniqueness is far something different. Unfortunately this young man appears to be so in step with the world. I personally don't have any hate or contempt for Matt and I congratulate him for his achievement in graduating BYU and feel sorry if he had to endure hardships due to his challenges. I wish him the best and God bless.
The amount of pride that Matt exhibited fails in comparison to the amount of pride Holland showed in his recent talk, and btw, I've been a member of this church for 56 years.
I am so profoundly moved and inspired by this beautiful declaration. ✨❤️✨ My heart is filled with an overwhelming sense of joy and love that I haven’t felt in so long. Thank you. 🙏 ✨“I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right.”✨ 🌈✨😊
Hey Matt. My name is Ben. I'm also a member of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I'm also gay. I just want to say, that I wish I have your courage. My life have been up and down lately because I'm not sure what my family thinks of my sexuality. What you did took a lot of courage which I'm proud of you. What did your family think about your decision? I'm really curious about it? Anyways I'm and organist and a pianist. If you would like to see my videos,go right ahead. I've recently post a disney song that I have chosen because of this. The video and the song is a tribute to the Notre Dame cathedral fire. I recommend that you watch it. One other thing is to make sure you are really careful on what you say next. I'll be standing up for all LGBT people of their beliefs and rights. Keep standing up to yourself. You have shown a lot of inspiration for the people who wants to come out and for those people who are trying to come out. Inspire them even more. Thanks.
I love this. So many people are gay at BYU and don’t have the guts to come out. Live a free life and be who you are. Forget the haters, living a happy life is most important.
@@BryanBryce ??? It pretty clearly states in the Bible that homosexuality is wrong. So it would be his religion? "You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination." (Leviticus 18:22)
Adam, maybe he should come up with his own religion if he is so smart. He justified his own importance because he is a narcissistic person. He won’t start his own religion because his narcissism doesn’t allow for time, so he’ll just ruin others beliefs.
This is historic. The rising generation is no longer going to put up with labelling everyone as evil apostates. That being said, I'd be shaking saying what he said to a university based on a faith whose "plan of salvation" specifically requires marriage and heterosexuality.
why not? The man was holding onto a secret that was eating away at him. He came out of the dark. He no longer has to hold onto those feelings of guilt and shame. I am sure a solid 97% would love to see him be faithful to God's commandments, there is no shame in being born lesbian or gay.
There are people who will never know how much courage this took. Unbelievably brave!
I came here because I listened to his story on Mormon Stories podcast. What an incredible young man. I am glad he is still with us and I wish his the very best life has to offer. Bless you, Matt.
This is a great speech. Anyone else here after listening to Holland’s recent talk at BYU?
Crocodile tears tbh
Yep. Beautiful speech... Matt's speech that is, not the garbage that came out of Holland's mouth. Yikes.
Yes. It helps to have the context to both Elder Hollands concerns and the comments made about it. Great speech Matt.
Same
Can someone explain to me Holland's point of view? Please don't just say bigot. I want to actually understand what his perspective is
As a BYU graduate and in light of this week's painful comments, I have listened again to this address and want to say I would be proud to have had Matt represent my graduating class as valedictorian. We do not all have to be the same and share the same experiences in order to be able to identity with each other, love, and support each other. That's empathy. That's discipleship. That is what ought to make BYU unique.
The speech was fine. Distracting. But fine. However, Matty has since used the platform that BYU gave him to smear the church, it's doctrines, and leaders. He openly lives in apostasy.
@Supa you are supa funny
@Tyler G On the Ellen Degeneris show? And on John Dehlin's show? Go watch it.
@Tyler G your mind is made up, so i don't know what you are asking me. Have a great one.
@Tyler G you can look to his interviews with Ellen and John. He did not cast a positive light on BYU.
Who else is here to feel better after seeing Holland’s talk?
So much worse but I'm glad you feel safe again.
trust me Chris Layton if there's any place that uses metaphorical muskets against their students you can rest assured it's definitely BYU. You have more wounded (mentally and physically) students there shot by faculty and students than anywhere else I've pursued my academic endeavours
I’m not here to “feel better” exactly, but I did want to hear the speech for myself to know how to respond to others who have strong opinions but have not seen this or listened to Elder Holland’s talk.
@@comradelulz7455 stop taking the metaphor out of context. So tired of seeing this. Straight out lies! Did you actually listen to the talk? If so you completely missed his message.
@@juliannjamison4427 your cognitive dissonance is showing... 😉
This message saved lives...
No it didn't.
❤️
I'm not crying, you are! As a mom, I would be so proud him. Perfectly created indeed. 👏
Yep. It's me. 😭
I didn't go to BYU, but I went to a similar school, actually a Bible college, for a very conservative fundamentalist Christian denomination. My first roommate as a freshman is a lesbian. The second got pregnant (out of wedlock). I struggled with my mental health and the responses to my struggle. I was so deeply indoctrinated that I couldn't, maybe wouldn't, see what is now so evident to me looking back. After my divorce (don't get me started on the expectations that kept me trapped in an abusive marriage), I joked with my ex about being done with men and switching teams. He flipped out. I do understand. Thing is, we both knew the truth in that moment, but he was terribly mistaken to think our marriage had been a lie. I didn't know. I really didn't. I couldn't. It was my journey with my daughter and her sexuality that finished opening my eyes. Even not having a good understanding of LGBT terminology, I "knew" my roommate is gay before she did. I "knew" my daughter had a different type of interest in girls from a young age, same with one of her best friends. Either God's love for her, for His creations, is greater than my own or He isn't God. His mom sounds amazing!!
Matt was extremely brave!
I am sure you helped someone that was sitting in the audience who was feeling desperate, you may have even saved a life. You have a full life ahead of you, filled with love companionship and adventure. Love is love.
@pork n beans
Kids are okay. *YOU'RE NOT!!*
Perfect talk! We need more Matt’s on campus!
WOW! So so brave. Matt you are a TRUE leader. I am blown away by this and I feel so proud of you and I don’t even know you. I left the church years ago but I was raised in it and I KNOW how much courage this takes! Your loved anf accepted and good enough and don’t let the fear of Brain washed people ever make you feel any differently. So inspiring
Wow nothing about this says commandeering to me…..
How on earth did Holland think this was a divisive speech?! Unbelievable
Edit: I just realized this TH-cam account is the man giving the speech so I want to let you know, Matt, that your speech was beautiful, uplifting, inclusive and inspirational. It was the opposite of divisive. I hope you have an amazing life and live it the way you find best-- whether that is by adhering to the strict guidelines the church has for its queer members or not ❤ You seem like such a sweet man and I know you will continue to make the lives of those around you better.
Hello Matt, Im from Santiago of Chile, Im a member of the Church of Jesus Christ too, and was imposible to stop feelling a fantastic emotion about your speech. Thank you for your example and your words. Sometimes we think that we are alone but thats not true. Thank you!!
No están solos. A pesar de que sientes deseos de estar con un hombre, testifico k podrás tener una vida llena de felicidad y gozo, casado con una mujer. Dios no nos dará mandamientos k no podemos cumplir
@@Ether-pb5gb you should really only speak for yourself and not for others.
So that's what "commendeering" looks like? Holland got it 100% WRONG!! Matt's Mormon Stories Podcast interview a couple days ago was so amazing.
Yes it was. What a beautiful and genuine human being he is.
You are an AMAZING person! So incredibly brave and such an inspiration to so many. I hope many more will lead more authentic lives and not commit suicide like your friend. That really got me on the Ellen show! I hope people become more accepting and compassionate toward anyone who is different than themselves. People can be horribly cruel. Thank you for being you. (From an ex-mormon.)
Holland was offended by that? Your speech is G-rated and I'm sure it brought comfort to many LGBT+ individuals and their loved ones to know they are not alone.
The church is more than Holland. It's a worldwide church. And although I wasn't a fan of this kid getting singled out, the speech was distracting, and unintentionally became about him. Matty has since
Used the platform that BYU gave him to nationally criticize the church and it's doctrines and leaders. He will probably be ex'd within a few years
@@Ether-pb5gb you know you are in a cult when criticizing it gets you banished
@@scrub3359 Bingo! There’s an excellent quote from Samuel Johnson (a writer from the 1700’s) related to that, “Fraud and falsehood only dread examination. Truth invites it.” If something is true and factual, examination will be urged, because that will lead to more realizing it is indeed factual. If a team of scientists just completed a series of experiments that confirmed their hypothesis, they will ask others to do their own experiments with the hypothesis, because they’re certain that any experiment will lead to the validation of said hypothesis. If a cult leader/religious organizer says that their theories are correct and that their hypothesis was proven true, but they say in the very next breath “there’s no need for any more analysis. I have proven it’s true” you know something is fishy.
@@Ether-pb5gb You know why he used it as a platform? Because assholes like Holland were not willing to be kind to him.
It doesn’t surprise me. A lot of people just hear the word gay or LGBT and get offended.
Such a beautiful, thoughtful and kind speech!
How incredibly brave and courageous. Sending you love and support Matt! You inspire us!
Why is it brave? Brave is speaking things that are not pleasing to the world and saying them anyway. This wasn't that.
Proud to be your cousin! I, and the rest of the family, stand behind you and LOVE you!
Some people will always hate what they do not understand, and by situations that do not effect them directly. Your cousin is awesome, and his actions will have larger effects going forward than he may even understand. Brilliantly done as well.
@@sleeperawaken36 You're already DEAD in sin. When you are awakened, you will see, and RAGE AGAINST the truth again.
@Tony Touch He's the valedictorian of a college founded in a historically bigoted and anti-gay religion. He is not making a statement for himself, he is making it for LGBT.
@Goldberg Brian He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone.
Brian, the only one who's disgusting is YOU! The only sin YOU have is NOT BEING IN THE 21ST CENTURY, which is where HE is!
3:54 - 4:06 - "As such I stand before my family, friends, and graduating class today, to say that I am proud to be a GAY son of God."
@@awillingvessel238 Maybe! And you're going to hell for being a bigot with a heart full of hate. Christ is very disappointed.
You are going to hell, you liar. @@awillingvessel238
@@awillingvessel238 and that's why I'm an atheist. Send people to hell over something they have no control over, wtf lol
@@Jp-yd2ke Couldn't have said the same thing better myself
@@awillingvessel238 Uh uh. YOU are going to Hell for gay-bashing.
I had to watch this, after having seen your episode on Mormon Stories Podcast. This talk will definitely be a transformative event sending ripples through space/time for decades. Thanks for being you & being candid with the citizens of Earth!
This warmed my heart. Thank you for taking the opportunity to come out so publicly. You may very well could have impacted hopeless audience members, giving them strength and hope for their own journey. Also, so happy that you mother could witness you graduate and open up about who you are.
❤️🧡💛💚💙💜 Unconditional love and support, Matt.
I am rewatching your speech to help me during this hard time. After Holland's comments, I've been struggling. I've been speaking up for my LGBTQ+ community, came out publicly on Facebook, wear pride pins every Sunday on my white shirt, fulfilling my calling as 2nd Councilor to the Elders Quorum, and talk to others about my story. But Holland's words made me feel like all my efforts have gone backwards. I've feel like those who don't understand us will now not listen to us. I've spoken to a few individuals that believe that being gay is a weakness. I told them that its been a gift to be open hearted and learn to love those that are different that others would consider the norm. But listening to this again is helping me out. I think its wonderful that you wore your Stole of Honor for Harry Fisher. This is who you are, I am who I am, we are who we are no matter what others say. I hope others don't give up and that BYU Alumni don't give up on themselves and celebrate who they are. We need to stand by together more than ever.
What did Holland say? I am still fairly new to the church (almost 2 years), and thankful to have had a wide world of life experience before joining. I am open minded and empathic so I do not tolerate hate toward others just because leaders (of any kind) want to keep people compliant. I am sorry you are struggling. You are not alone and many will be there for you if you ever decide to reach out.
@@stephaniepappas5240 I appreciate it. Holland had a lovely talk to the BYU conference until he brought up Matthew Easton's speech saying that it was not right to share your sexual orientation and what other divisiveness would there be due to him coming out. But he really didn't see the great outcome that came from Matthew's speech. He also had his speech approved by the BYU administration. You can see Matthew Easton's story and what led him to do this speech on this video...
th-cam.com/video/YfsyFraqZyY/w-d-xo.html
Are you telling me there was no backlash until 2 years later? I wish Holland didn’t ever say anything but, I’m surprised that it wasn’t an instant response. Why now?
Do you you what an apostle is?
What an amazing speech! Congratulations :)
And the Church said, “Amen!”
- Todrick Hall, 2k19
I am 67 and had a great career with IBM. I am gay and LDS... I even have regained my Temple Recommend after 30 years for which I was traveling globally and had no time for regular church attendance because I traveled on Sundays...Now in retirement I am active and love my church and proud of who I am and what I have accomplished. I know God loves me and I will soon be standing before our Godhead and say, "I am your son..."
And He shall say "I never knew you, depart from Me you who work evil."
God has only one Son, Jesus Christ and He and the Father have always been one. The gospel of Joseph Smith is a false gospel and the Jesus preached is a false Jesus. Man can never be God and homosexuals will not inherit eternal life. No one is born homosexual and I firmly believe that the Holy Spirit can free you and anyone else that identifies as LGBT just as He can free drunks, fornicators, or anyone else from anything.
@@veritas8575 No. Jesus is God's ONLY begotten Son. But Jesus came to bring MANY SONS to glory. Don't forget Adam was called a Son of God also. The Scripture is truth, your voice is lacking. I follow Jesus Christ, not liars.
Jari Mikkola darling its still a homophobic cult, lots of people just stay in it as it is not as expense as joining a country club.
“You are seen. You are loved.”
A lot of us BYU alums are revisiting this talk. It's absolutely astonishing the beauty and courage this talk embodies in only a few minutes, especially when compared to the 40 minutes of thinly veiled divisiveness and hate delivered by a "special witness of Christ". The irony of that label...
That special witness of Christ is called by God to give us guidance in these days. So do you really think God would just allow one of his apostles to create divisiveness and hate within the church?
Now 5.5 years later I finally got to see this speech and I couldn't help cheering and clapping in my home office. I want to send this video to everyone who said Matt was "commandeering the podium" (Jeffrey R Holland's words) or making the speech about himself - in reality, it's the most inclusive, affirming, jubilant speech ever. I spoke at another graduation two years later and I wish my speech was this good.
I have spent years embarrassed to have BYU on my educational record. You are helping to change the world. Thank you.
Liar
I went to Northern Arizona and am embarrassed. Welcome to the club.
Thanks for posting this Matt. It's good to have some context. Wish you all the best 😊
An amazing speach! The courage, vulnerability, and self defferenation it takes to dare greatly! This is what the commandment, " love thy neighbor as thyself looks like!" BYU, choose a significant individual as Matt Eastmond to give such a pointant address for all! A Brilliant moment for BYU, and the World!
I wanted to cry 😭. Thank you.
Bravo! As a '90 BYU grad and father of 4, I simply cannot imagine this ever happening then. To that I say, "it's about time'!" Well done Matt and thank you for your courage.
When has celebrating sin ever been ok. I dont celebrate my sins or any sin. We try to overcome sinful tendencies and not try to embrace and make excuses for sin.
LOVE you for presenting such an inspiring speech!
I couldn't have imagined this when I graduated in '09. Guts and poise 💪
@@jongwood Apostasy or joining the modern world?
Try 1971 on for size. Left the church because there was ZERO support for anyone outside the norm. Just started to allow Blacks into the church later in that decade. So as the winds of change, or should we say corrections goes on. Bravo to the church for allowing free speech. All faiths should be treated as a guide and not so much a ruler of our lives. We will all find our path through living the good example.
@@JamJells Classic "left the church but I can't leave it alone."
Its not a sin. You're the sin for all the hate you bring. Just shut the hell up.
@Goldberg Brian HATE is a sin. Go talk to your god about this. Stop spreading your filth.
Amazed and proud. This is a day that a Ute proudly stands and cheers for a Cougar. Well done!
Thank you So much for your Integrity and Courage !
You are a brave and incredible man. It’s people like you that make me hopeful for the future. When I was in college in the 90s in Utah, it would be unthinkable to see such bravery.
You have a twisted and perverted view of Bravery.
Yawn it might have been brave 20 years ago but today just a yawn fest
Leon, YOU'RE the one who's twisted. This is the 21st century, for crying out loud.
@@gameshowguy2000 Courage & Bravery is when a soldier puts his life on the line to protect his fellow soldiers from a grenade attack. Your sexual preferences have ZERO to do with courage or bravery.
@@Unit285 Really?! Try saying THAT to the brave GLBT soldiers serving right now, despite Trump's ban, which is being fought in the courts as we speak. YOU are REALLY hurting GLBT people's feelings right now. STRIKE ONE.
I don’t know you, but I got a little emotional watching this. Congratulations on so many levels! I wish you the very best and am proud of you for sharing yourself and your testimony with the world.
It was a great speech--entertaining, touching, intelligent and totally appropriate. Good job Matt.
I want you to know that your words are valuable and your courage is admirable. After somentime spent in prayer, I feel strongly that the hurrful words of disapproval given at the byu conference earlier this week were not from God. I cant imagine the pain and dissonance you must feel if you wonder if those words were from heavenly father. You arent alone, we are feeling that pain with you, and your work to restore the fullness and establish Zion(which requires all of us) is appreciated.
I'm sure this isn't the first time you've heard this and I surely hope it won't be the last, but you are such an inspiration. I'm bisexual and am going to BYU-I in 5 days. I've been scared since my decision of where I was going, but after Holland's recent talk at BYU, I've been down right petrified. I've never felt more alone than how I feel scrolling through the comments of the video of his talk. Comments spreading hate towards people like me and saying that people like me need to be fixed. But hearing your speech reminded me that I'm not alone, I don't need to be fixed, and my future is still bright. I'm still scared, but at least now I know there's a light at the end of the tunnel. So, just, thank you. Thank you for your bravery. You've given courage to those without it and I hope you know how much of a difference you have made.
What a class act! What a great young man. Beautiful speech. Very brave. Happy to see he was warmly received when he said he was gay.
This gave me goosebumps!!! 👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿
When I graduated there with a Poly Sci degree, I just cannot imagine this happening. Congrats on your graduation. And good luck. Today, I am inspired to consider what I am celebrating!!
Literally crying in my Uber 😩
Much love to you and your mama, Matt, and sending prayers of peace for both of you. Thank you for your courage. I am reminded daily--by the tattoo I wear to remember them--of all the LGBTQ kids who give up and end their lives too soon, before they ever get to enjoy true happiness living life as who they were born to be. Stay strong!! There's an entire community out here waiting to embrace you!
I have at least 6 gay LDS friends, none of whom experienced the overt hatred they had been direly warned of. As a gay Roman Catholic, I was routinely terrorized by outsiders' graphic tales of The Church's abuse and excommunication of LGBTs. The majority of those tales were simply urban legends; the remainder were grossly exaggerated. The entirely of my abuse as it relates to The RCC (and my husband's as it relates to the LDS) consists of evil people - with no representative capacity within The Church - who gleaned some twisted joy from inflicting terror upon me, regaling me of The Church's hatred and eventual condemnation of me.
When I "came out," The Church's response was essentially a shrug and "Let's get back to feeding some hungry people." It was then that I realized that, far from simply being mean-spirited busybodies, my tormentors had been evil sadists practicing a particularly cruel form of political manipulation.
"I didn't encounter it so no one did!"
You are lucky. You don't have to dismiss the troubles of others because you were surrounded by kindness. However, we must acknowledge that others are not, and that the church has contributed millions of dollars in funding to stop gay marriage.
Acknowledge evil wherever it may be. Do not dismiss it because you have not experienced it personally. This is blindness to the suffering of your fellows.
Are your 6 gay LDS friends in Utah? I can assure you, it’s terrible here. We have a huge amount of teen suicide here. As a former Mormon with several gay family members, I’ve seen the pain and suffering they have gone through. Shame on you for the “well I haven’t seen it so it’s not true” attitude.
@@mimat1427 1) I never said that there is no gay-centric pain and suffering inflicted by people who claim to represent the Church. 2) You have no authority to foist righteous "Shame on me," so shut your hateful trap. 3) Like every bigmouthed busybody, I note that you think that your tertiary, anectdotal "experience" somehow outweighs my REAL, LIVED experience. 4) EVERY gay kid I've EVER met who contemplated self-destruction only did so because he was afraid of the horror stories that awful people insisted on terrorizing him with, not any actual experienced mysery, myself included. 5) I bet MOST of the 25 "thumbs up" my original comment received were from gay people with REAL EXPERIENCE in this issue.
@@samcombs9121 I NEVER said that it didn't exist because I never saw it - stop trying to have BOTH sides of the conversation. What I said was that most gay men that I know were terrified by tales of social condemnation which turned out overwhelmingly to not be true, but instead some kind of sick Aesop-style morality tale designed to scare us out of our perceived "rebeliousness" and into alignment with social norms that "they" prefered. We all spent our childhoods purposely frightened into behavioral compliance with everything from medical horror stories to Santa Claus. "When you lie, your nose will grow. Making a face will cause your face to stick like that. Not bathing causes bugs to eat into your brain. Sitting too close to the TV will wreck your eyes. You will drown if you swim less than 30 minutes after eating." We were told everything from "You will have to wear diapers your whole life" to "your landlord will throw you out without warning." The difference is that it's the gay men themselves - and their straight "allies" - who are doing the lying. Wanna bet that MOST of the 25 "thumbs up" my original comment received were from gay people with REAL EXPERIENCE in this issue?
Great speech buddy. Love to you from an x-morman.
It’s disheartening to read comments. Why is no one ever happy with anything? I’m sad to see everyone nit picking this. For those of us who didn’t have the courage to come out when we were at BYU, this is nice to see. I’m happy for this.
simone5239 Nobody said anything about their bedroom.
@simone5239 You may not intend to sound hateful, but you are. How about just don't be hateful... Seems much easier yes?
@simone5239 And yet you are the one who hatefully reduces love and attraction down to sex. If it isn't your problem, then shut the fuck up. I can't help what crosses your mind when you see others who are different from yourself.
this gave me chills 🤍 thank you 👏🏼👏🏼
I wonder how this went over to the general authorities.
Matt said in an interview that the First Presidency members were supportive and "happy for him," but that he found out that Elder Holland was livid and called the speech selfish
Matt, I felt the spirit very strong by your speech. Be a leader in our church, and help us find a path forward as a church to more fully incorporate the LGBTQ+ community! You are not flawed, you are a strong child in a wonderful kingdom. Best of luck in your future endeavors, and go Cougs!
did you get all tingly?
The words a "wicked and perverse generation" keep running through my mind.
@@jonn.6325 you know it!
Na, I just hope the best for the church as we move forward into the future. There is an evergrowing presence of LGBTQ people in the church and to just ignore them and call them all sinners is clearly not the approach to take. It would be one thing if this young man celebrated gay sex in his speech, however all he celebrated is that he is Son of God. He is. If he has been faithful to his covenants as he seemed to claim he had been, then you and I are no better than he is. I appreciate your comment, though. Its a tough subject to tackle. I've probably said similar things in the past. I just hope there is a way to be a more inclusive church without changing our standards.
DanielA, if God created them that way, why are they ever growing
? It’s a choice, and there will be a civil war in the Church. I pray Eyring will not be our next Church President.
This gives me hope! You are whole and wonderful. I don't know you, but feeling very proud tonight!
Seriously!
If you imagine as a political science you are a political science!
Well that's something you don't expect at BYU. Was there any backlash?
BYU approved the whole thing before hand. Common misconception: while not approving of sexual relationships, we members of the Church who have same sex attraction are not denied any blessings. The point of this life is to build your relationship with your Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, everything else is just a bonus.
@@wolfcub824 Up until recently, kids who had parents in a same sex marriage couldn't get baptized. Please don't make it seem like the church is super accepting toward the LGBTQ community, bc it's not true.
What the hell is super accepting? Two of the biggest problems with millennials is that they are not well read, and they are poorly traveled. A little R&R will help. I suggest the Horn of Africa.
@@JAMaddict Actually they always could get baptized, they just had to take an extra step in the process. It was to make sure it wouldn't rip their family apart. Our church is very family oriented, and we don't want those family relationships destroyed. It was actually put in place to protect the same sex couple family relationships.
“Extra step,” (wait until you are 18 to be allowed to be baptized and fully participate, and renounce your parents’ marriage). This was a policy that harmed so many people & families. My heart broke when my niece, turning 8, had to try to wrap her head around why she wasn’t allowed to be baptized like her friends or her older siblings, as she was so looking forward to, because one of her parents was transgender, and finally came out & transitioned (out of necessity, it saved her life), and now her parents looked like a “same-sex couple” and the church was in the process of ousting her parents (& her by extention) from the church that they had loved. I know you are doing your best to believe that it’s all wonderful & perfect & God’s will. I’m sorry if my words are hard for you to hear or reconcile. But I know children and families should not be hurt this way, and the beauty and importance of those loving family relationships are not something God denies or wants others to deny using God’s name.
If anyone is wondering why a gay member of the church would choose to come out, here are the words of Ben Schilaty, active LDS and gay:
"I have been told many times to not label myself as gay and I obeyed that counsel during my 20s. I didn’t want to be gay. I didn’t want to be attracted to men. And I hated myself for having those feelings. The times when I didn’t identify as gay were the hardest, darkest times in my life. Choosing to identify as gay has been wonderful and freeing. I’m no longer trying to change something about myself that I can’t change, but I’m acknowledging the unique circumstances of my life and choosing to live in them. My beliefs and commitment to the restored gospel have not changed since I started labeling myself as gay. I live church standards as much as I always have. But what has changed is that I don’t hate myself anymore."
Amazing speech. So proud of you.
The entirety of the media, government, and corporate power structure support him but wow he is just so brave. 👏
You are SO amazing. This is the energy we need to finish 2019.
I don't know you but I'm so proud of you. I believe God is too. For those who criticize, don't pay them any attention, they're still stuck in the old testament. God gave us the new testament for a reason. We have a progressive God, a forgiving, loving, and accepting God. He loves you and so do I.
I have bad news........
Congratulations to you, Matt. I appreciate your authenticity and vulnerability. You are brave and awesome!
@@Michael-A And you call yourself christian? how shameful.
Matt Easton, thank you for your bravery, strength and inspiration. I forwarded this speech to a friend of mine who has been struggling with the lack of support from her family, who refuse to come to terms with the fact that she is gay, and you touched her soul too. Keep doing wonderful things ❤
I am so proud of you, my brother... You are such a blessing for so many people - far more than you will ever know!!!!
All of you human rejects patting each other on the fanny and virtue signalling is just sickening to anyone who is NORMAL. FIRST OF ALL you are all liars.
Brother Applebaugh, I hope you’re not in young men’s. Leave the children alone.
@@Michael-A And exactly how is bigotry normal? That is so 1950's.
@@williamlee266 Since when do you care about little children?
So whose taking bets that byu will disqualify his diploma like they did with the guy who made the former missionary calendar. To be fair ... They should Or reinstate that guys.
we can only hope
His speech was preapproved.
"But Jenkins said all universities require students to be in good standing before a diploma is issued."....Chad Hardy was excommunicated.
Now if only the Church would find a place for him to be fully himself and allow him to be a member in good standing. Instead they condemn him to a life of celibacy and rejection of love or a life as a sinner even in a monogamous marriage with the man of his dreams and maybe even the father of children. Matt deserves all the happiness and love of any other child of God, and God does not want Matt to be frustrated, lonely and loveless in order to receive his blessings and fulfill his plan.
i don't see any sins here. ????
upityjoe I see your sins quite clearly.
Naw screw that. Being gay is a choice. Look at prisoners. (Edit: this guy seems nice and he can definitely live a life with his wife and even be attracted to her with the help of God. I don't want to push him away)
You would have the Church throw away everything it's based upon to accommodate your sin. No Thanks.
Curtis Jensen who cares I am not religious but why would you want to be part of a group that does not accept you? That’s like being black but wanting to join the KKK. Just sayin
Hey Matt. Wow - guts for days for doing this. Impressive. I have a quick question: I’m seeing indicators that you vetted speech through proper channels prior to delivering it, but I’ve been misled by such “indicators” before on other topics. So I like to go straight to the horse’s mouth. I’m on your side here, and I’d like to tell people who bring up with me that I am certain you did vet this prior to delivering it. Would you mind letting us all know for sure? Thanks so much. God bless.
He tweeted about it after everything that went down
Watching this makes me so proud to be a BYU alum. Thank you for being bold.
Came here to see how a valedictorian could "commandeer" a valedictory speech. So divisive. /s
Elder Jowland is an ass. Those old crusty out-of-touch dinosaurs in SLC need to wake up and smell the Postum. The world is a changing.
I’m curious. Having gone through the process myself- did you submit your speech to the board before hand? If so, was it any challenge at all to get it approved?
amy daves There is an article about this on ldsliving.com and the following quote is from this article “When Easton approached the dean's office with the idea of mentioning his sexuality in his valedictorian speech, the advice he received was "Go for it."
I am so proud that he can do this still in the USA. Congratulations and good luck.
So this is where all the Demoncrats hang out.
Well he wouln’t Be doing it in Russia, Iran, North Korea, China, Pakistan, Kashmir, Iraq, Syria, Kuwait, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Djibouti, Somalia, Uganda, Sudan,
*thestelz1. You idiot. the Democrats are in the 21st century, but you and your Republicans are NOT. But you don't understand that, DO YOU?!*
JohnLee if Democrats are in 21st century, why are the pushing hard for an old white man who commits sexual harassment and enjoys child play?
“I am not broken.”
You have been such an inspiration to me and my family. Love you!
-The Thurmans
Your courage is a testament to the best character in any one of us... Thank you, Matt.
@pork n beans And all you did was cowardly sling bigotry behind a pseudonym. Me thinks you protest too much.
Phenomenal, Matt. Congrats to you and to your (undoubtedly proud) family for having raised such a wise and exceptional young man. Go forward and do great things!
Brave. That was then, this is now. Just imagine a world without cold indifference, still, from the Church. LGBTQ+ will never be accepted by the Church. Your journey with a graduate program and coming out is so refreshing and celebratory.
Congratulations to sharing with others the freedom that you have the courage to claim.
Thank you for this.
"The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is [pride]"
"Remember faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, brotherly kindness, godliness, charity, [pride], diligence."
"Let the residue continue to preach from that hour, and if they will do this in all [loftiness] of heart, in [narrowness] and [pride], and long-suffering, I, the Lord, give unto them a promise that I will provide for their families; and an effectual door shall be opened for them, from henceforth."
"Blessed are the [proud]: for they shall inherit the earth."
The issue is not that this man feels attracted to other men. It's that he is proud of it.
I understand that the LDS church says as long as someone doesn't "act" on their same-sex attraction, there is no sin. Is that correct?
David Conklin yes
@@2045946 Well that's fucked up! It's 2019 ffs just let the man bone whoever he wants.
Correct, members like me who find that they are attracted to their own gender are given counsel to not pursue that desire, and are able to receive the blessings of the gospel.
Honestly, people who think that the GOAL in this life is marriage or sex are not really looking at the big picture. This life is a place to prepare to meet God, if he made me a lesbian, he made me that way for a reason. I don't really know why he did that to me, but I have faith it is somehow for my own good, and I will understand in the next life.
@@wolfcub824 Wow, you just admitted being gay isn't a choice. Appreciate that, Melami!
@@mewdotkai of course it isn't... Unless a person is Bisexual that concept should not even be in question.
When I first came out to a church leader I was shocked by how anticlimactic it was... I was still a teenager and he really said "Ok, so what's the problem?" My jaw hit the floor.😂 Pretty much every member of the church had similar reactions... Many people expressed sympathy. But no one freaked out. I was just being over judgemental on myself, I was the bigot who didn't accept myself. It was loving church leaders who helped me come to grips with myself. I wanted to bury it deep and not deal with it, but my leaders convinced me to accept that it was a part of me. In discovering myself I bounced into the LGBT community and found after a long time that it wasn't as satisfying as I felt when I was working on accepting myself in relation to God's plan. So, I finally decided to go back to church and strengthen my relationship with my Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. I have a much more positive outlook on life now. Life isn't perfect, but who's life is? 😉
Good Night!😴
I graduated in this college last week and was so so happy that Matt was our valedictorian. It was such a powerful message!
Is it weird having the name of a Klans men on your diploma?
Well done. I'm hopeful for positive change at BYU.
Easy answer....being able to live your life with authenticity!
gtfo
As a former lgbtq student, I know how hard it is! We won’t hide anymore.
The fact that the staff of Brigham Young University approved the speech after reviewing it shows how far their faculty has come in the ability to accept your chosen lifestyle as well.
4:03 LDS pin drop......I have to give it to the LGBTQ people they are out front. 30 years ago this man would've probably been escorted off stage and blackballed from society. Goes to show you how quickly our norms can change in society. Makes me question a lot of long held opinions and beliefs.
Goes to show how quickly our country has become immoral and rejected God.
@@veritas8575 And show's how quickly you are to show your bigotry. Shoo...
I've been a member of this church for 42 years and I never went to BYU or any church college however after hearing Matt's speech I have no problem with Elder Holland's speech. This young man like many other BYU alumni who I have met can sound inspiring but not be inspired. Matt Easton's comment about Elder Hollands speech: “I am proud of what I did two years ago, and I stand by what I said.” Pride is still pride and that is what this young man exhibited by coming out in the manner that he did. Nothing wrong in coming out with such a challenge but to glorify it's uniqueness is far something different. Unfortunately this young man appears to be so in step with the world. I personally don't have any hate or contempt for Matt and I congratulate him for his achievement in graduating BYU and feel sorry if he had to endure hardships due to his challenges. I wish him the best and God bless.
The amount of pride that Matt exhibited fails in comparison to the amount of pride Holland showed in his recent talk, and btw, I've been a member of this church for 56 years.
I am so profoundly moved and inspired by this beautiful declaration. ✨❤️✨
My heart is filled with an overwhelming sense of joy and love that I haven’t felt in so long. Thank you. 🙏
✨“I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right.”✨ 🌈✨😊
Bravo, Matt!
Hey Matt. My name is Ben. I'm also a member of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I'm also gay. I just want to say, that I wish I have your courage. My life have been up and down lately because I'm not sure what my family thinks of my sexuality. What you did took a lot of courage which I'm proud of you. What did your family think about your decision? I'm really curious about it? Anyways I'm and organist and a pianist. If you would like to see my videos,go right ahead. I've recently post a disney song that I have chosen because of this. The video and the song is a tribute to the Notre Dame cathedral fire. I recommend that you watch it. One other thing is to make sure you are really careful on what you say next. I'll be standing up for all LGBT people of their beliefs and rights. Keep standing up to yourself. You have shown a lot of inspiration for the people who wants to come out and for those people who are trying to come out. Inspire them even more. Thanks.
I'm proud of you, deer boy. Also, congratulations on your degree!
Foxy Cinquantuno *dear
Oooops, just now heard the part about the deer
Yeah, it was a bad pun. :)
I love this. So many people are gay at BYU and don’t have the guts to come out. Live a free life and be who you are. Forget the haters, living a happy life is most important.
It's a shame that his religion makes him feel the need to justify the fact that he is important, he's a brave and clearly super intelligent guy.
Yeah, this was a great speech. The guy seems happy and well-adjusted but I imagine it wasn't always that way throughout his Mormom whole gay life.
It's not his religion, it's some peoples interpretation of his religion.
@@BryanBryce ??? It pretty clearly states in the Bible that homosexuality is wrong. So it would be his religion? "You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination." (Leviticus 18:22)
Adam, maybe he should come up with his own religion if he is so smart. He justified his own importance because he is a narcissistic person. He won’t start his own religion because his narcissism doesn’t allow for time, so he’ll just ruin others beliefs.
@@williamlee266 ??? What are you even on about? Lol.
Congrats Matt on your accomplishment! Good luck in the next chapter of your life! I know that everyone is rooting for you and cheering you on! 😊
Balls bigger than the Carillon Bells-- I salute you Sir, well done!!
This is historic. The rising generation is no longer going to put up with labelling everyone as evil apostates. That being said, I'd be shaking saying what he said to a university based on a faith whose "plan of salvation" specifically requires marriage and heterosexuality.
@@jonn.6325 Of course.
Great job Matt. You've done something amazing.
Congratulations! It’s amazing! He’s broken the blood brain barrier, and he’s lived to talk about it... It’s amazing!
@Keyzer Söze Because strait people never have sex. Go take your ignorance and bigotry elsewhere.
You are so great, Matt! I am so proud to know you. I love you!!!
Wasn’t expecting applause
why not? The man was holding onto a secret that was eating away at him. He came out of the dark. He no longer has to hold onto those feelings of guilt and shame. I am sure a solid 97% would love to see him be faithful to God's commandments, there is no shame in being born lesbian or gay.