Chicago’s LGBTQ community reacted to news of the shooting that killed at least 50 people at a gay nightclub in Orlando early Sunday morning with an outpouring of support, solidarity, and grief. As the city woke Monday, plans for numerous vigils were already in place, following up on one that took place Sunday evening.
Vigil in Chicago for #Orlando. pic.twitter.com/ihlYCU0DcX
— Josh Evans (@jwe312) June 12, 2016
The vigil was organized by Chicago Survivors, an organization dedicated to helping the families of victims of gun violence in the city, and was attended by Chicago Police Department superintendent Eddie Johnson, among others. “We’re here not only to support Orlando, but to support the community here, and to let you know we’ll always be here for you,” Johnson said, echoing the CPD’s statement condemning “another reprehensible act of gun violence.”
As we learn abt another reprehensible act of gun violence, CPD extends our deepest condolences to those affected by the tragedy in #Orlando
— Chicago Police (@Chicago_Police) June 12, 2016
Many other Chicagoans seized this opportunity to present a universal message about discrimination or the horrors of gun violence.
I’m terrified to live in a country where people are murdered for being who they are, whether gay, black, Muslim, or Catholic.. #Orlando
— Tim Hess (@EsKaLiDiNg) June 12, 2016
Similarly, the Center on Halsted, a support group for LGBTQ youth, said that “Our hearts are heavy today.” The center is also organizing a vigil for Monday night at 7 PM.
Our hearts are heavy today. Our deepest condolences to the friends and family of victims in this horrific event.
— Center on Halsted (@CenteronHalsted) June 12, 2016
We’re heartbroken by the tragedy at #PulseOrlando. #LoveNotHate pic.twitter.com/DrHIQZ70vb
— Berlin Nightclub (@BerlinNightclub) June 12, 2016
