Leeds remembers the victims of the Orlando shooting
Hundreds of people gathered in Leeds last night to remember those who lost their lives in the Orlando nightclub shooting.
Hundreds of people gathered in Leeds last night to remember those who lost their lives in the Orlando nightclub shooting.
49 people were tragically killed in the homophobic hate fuelled massacre in the early hours of Sunday 12th June 2016 at the renowned LGB&T Nightclub in Florida.
Venues within the heart of gayleeds on Lower Briggate stopped serving at 11pm with people then taking to the streets to hold a one-minute silent candle lit vigil to show solidarity with their LGB&T brothers and sisters of Orlando at this traumatic time.
Leeds Business man and Leeds LGB&T venue owner Micheal Rothwell was one of those who helped to organise the event he said:
“It’s such terrible news coming from Orlando, we all need to stand together regardless of sexuality, gender or creed and show that hate has no place in the world. I’m saddened that we as gay people are still targeted simply because of who we love, I am however proud of how gayleeds always comes together in times like these”.
Leeds First Direct Arena which is a big supporter of equality in the city also changed the colour of it’s building at in honour of those who were killed.
Later today, Leeds City Council will observe a one minute silence in respect of the victims of the attack. The silence will occur at 12 noon on Tuesday 14 June 2016.
Lord Mayor of Leeds Councillor Gerry Harper said:
"The people of Leeds are invited to join the council and many others as we pay our respects on Tuesday. Leeds has a strong LBG&T* community and we will share their mourning as we remember those who perished in Orlando, those who were hurt and their loved ones."
Councillor Judith Blake, leader of Leeds City Council said:
"We will hold a ceremony at Victoria Gardens on Tuesday to allow people to express their sorrow for those affected and to display solidarity with the LGB&T* community in the city and across the world.
"We are working with others to make sure appropriate support is available to those who may need it and make clear our commitment to support all the diverse communities in Leeds."
Leeds City Council chief executive, Tom Riordan added:
"What we have seen in Orlando, with so many lives lost and people injured is a profound tragedy. It is right, therefore, that as a council and as a city we pay our respects and show our unity across communities. Council staff and other partners in Leeds are invited to join us in observing the one minute silence."
The American and Rainbow flags will fly at half-mast on civic hall during the event.