Candlelight vigil after beating of gay man in Santa Fe
SANTA FE, N.M. About 300 people have attended a candlelight vigil in support of a gay man who was beaten outside a Santa Fe, New Mexico hotel. James Maestas (meye-ES'-tuhs) is described by friends as a funny, loving man interested in choreography and fashion and who would never hurt anyone.
The 21-year-old was beaten unconscious a week ago.
Rachel Rosen -- a friend of the family and chairwoman of Equality New Mexico -- says Maestas spoke from his hospital bed for the first time Saturday.
She says Maestas asked for a mirror and then said he had the fattest lip he'd ever seen.
Governor Bill Richardson told the crowd that what happened to Maestas shouldn't happen to anyone.
Three men have pleased innocent to charges in the case.
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