It was two years ago tonight when a gunman opened fire in an LGBT nightclub in Orlando and killed 49 people — and wounded 53 others — who just wanted to go dancing.
To honor and remember those victims, Gulfport city councilman Paul Ray has organized a vigil at the Gulfport Public Library tonight. June 12 is "Orlando United Day – A Day of Love and Kindness," so designated by the City of Orlando, Orange County and Pulse.
"My belief is this should never be forgotten what happened. It's a long line in the deaths that we're watching, every single one of them need to be remembered," Councilman Ray said. Ray, who's been a longtime advocate for LGBT rights.
The vigil will start at 6:30 p.m. Reverend Brad Rice from King of Peace Metropolitan Community Church will give a talk, as will Jennifer Webb. There will be roses with the names of each one of the 49 people, whose names will be read aloud.
Pulse vigil | Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport | June 12: 6:30 p.m. | mygulfport.us
This article appears in Jun 7-14, 2018.