Dorothy Hajdys-Clausen Celebrates 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' Repeal 18 Years After Son Allen Schindler's Brutal Killing

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In 20 years, Chicago Heights has seen more than its share of young people murdered. But one of the most talked about deaths was the killing of a lifelong Chicago Heights man whose death drew international attention.

On Saturday, his mother Dorothy Hajdys-Clausen will be in Washington, D.C., to honor his memory and rejoice in a victory earned over her son's dead body.

Allen Schindler Jr. was born Dec. 13, 1969. When Allen was still young, Dorothy and her husband divorced. Dorothy worked two jobs to support Allen and his sisters. Growing up on "The Hill," Allen would play at Jirtle Park and bring home stray animals. Allen loved animals. He also loved his family.

And when Allen got older, he realized he loved a man.

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