Scott Jones has been working toward walking again after he was stabbed in the back on a New Glasgow, N.S. street in October.
The 27-year-old was left paralyzed from the waist down in what Jones, who is openly gay, calls a hate crime. He is now trying to erase homophobia.
“I think it's a subject we try to avoid and I think it's time to get out there and start teaching our kids that equality is important,” says Jones.
The “Don't be Afraid” campaign had been confined to the web, but Jones and his supporters decided to start a series of discussions on homophobia, beginning on Saturday in New Glasgow.
Jones, along with some guests, spoke out and shared their stories during the event.
“We have a choir that's performing. We have a skit about homophobia that will cause the audience to reflect and think how it appears in our daily lives,” adds Jones.
Saturday’s gathering had a packed house of close to 250 people, but organizers wouldn't allow media to record the event.
Jones' supporters say they're amazed at how he has dealt with his situation.
"If it was anyone else, I don't think they could stay so positive,” says supporter Kelsey Pettipas.
“Yeah, and be able to put something like this on right away. Like it didn't happen that long ago, so it's hard to believe,” adds Sarah Bennett.
Jones says support, love, and hope has allowed him to pursue his campaign for equality.
“Because of that love, I’m riding this wave. It feels like that,” says Jones. “After the accident, just from hospital visits, cards and phone calls and people just wanting to help.”
Jones and his friends are planning another “Don’t Be Afraid” event in Halifax in the spring.
The accused in the stabbing, Shane Matheson, will appear in court for a preliminary hearing in April.
With files from CTV’s Matt Woodman
