We are shocked and saddened by the massacre in Orlando. Our hearts are with the victims and the countless people whose lives are forever changed by this tragedy. Sunday’s attacks are the deadliest mass shooting in recent U.S. history and the latest in a long history of hate-fueled violence against LGBTQ people.
This massacre and the subsequent scapegoating come during a political season that has borne more than 100 anti-LGBT bills in the states and given rise to extreme anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim incitement. No politician nor media professional should use this attack to justify continued racism and Islamophobia. We call on our elected leaders to be firm in the fight for justice for LGBTQ people and to resist pressures to fortify our divisions and repeal civil rights.
The outpouring of love, solidarity and resilience that echoed across communities in the immediate hours after the attacks are guideposts for how we should respond in the coming days and months.
“As Pride Month and Ramadan continue, CNC stands in solidarity with our LGBTQ and Muslim family in celebration and reflection.” said Terri A. Johnson, executive director. “Now and when these observations end, we will continue to work against the hatred that too often results in violence and tears at our nation’s heart.”