Four years ago Friday, a gunman opened fire at Pulse nightclub in Orlando’s SoDo neighborhood, killing 49 people and injuring dozens of others.
The impacts of the attack are still felt across the world years later. Murals and rainbows dot the city serving as a reminder that we will not let hate win.
Governor Rod DeSantis has ordered that flags be flown at half-staff in remembrance of the victims.
The anniversary of the tragedy comes during a time when the country is restructuring its policing systems and more.
Since June 12, 2016, the city has made plans to turn the site of Florida’s deadliest mass shooting into a memorial and museum where mourners can go to reflect on the lives lost. The entire project is scheduled to be completed by 2023.
Never Forget
Though less permanent, there have been countless other tributes and exhibits across Central Florida in the years that have gone by.
We’ve also heard from survivors and family members of victims who’ve fought for change, going as far as to testify in front of Congress for tougher gun laws.
Their hopes of preventing something like what they went through from happening again is all of our hope.
They’ve also provided us with raw stories showcasing the challenges they’ve faced recovering from gunshot wounds and suffering from post traumatic stress disorder. While the scars may never fully heal, many are trying to do what they can to have a positive impact on their community.
While June 12, known as Orlando United Day, is usually marked somber gatherings with candles and moments of silence, this year will be different.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the usual events have been moved to an online format for the first time ever that will allow all those who wish to take part the chance to do so without the risk of falling ill.
The vestiges of hate are blaring with incidents like the Pulse Nightclub shooting. However, the world has a light shining brightly on all injustice so that tragedy’s like this never happen again.
