On June 12th, 2016, an American citizen born in Queens murdered 49 innocent individuals in the Pulse Night Club. Like most Americans, I heard the news the next morning and was extremely appalled by the actions of this individual. Social media was pouring in with people grieving over the losses of family and friends, and offering their support to Orlando and the LGBTQ community. While the news stations broadcasted the events that were unfolding that morning, we began hearing the stories of the victims. While most people are aware of what happened that night in Orlando, many view it as “just another shooting”. Personally, that morning I felt a little disconnected from the whole situation, and I don’t think at the time I fully comprehended the gravity of what had just occurred.
During the 4th of July weekend, my family and I went to Orlando to relax and enjoy some quality family time. While my main intentions were to enjoy Busch Gardens and Magic Kingdom, my dad made it a point to take me and my brother to the Pulse Night Club on the very last day of our trip. As a stubborn teen, I remember asking myself why I was going to the club, for I didn’t think my perception of what happened would change. When we arrived at the club, there was a good 5 minutes where there was just sheer silence. Though there was cars driving by and construction going on, I felt isolated from everything else. Even my brother and my dad, who spent the whole car ride discussing the events of that night, were left speechless.
I remember walking toward the building and looking down on the concrete steps and seeing patches of dried blood still there. Once I got to the building, chills ran up my spine. For I noticed that the size of the building was much smaller than I had perceived it to be. This scared me even more to recognize that so many people were cramped in the building and one man opened fire in this congested area. However, what scared me the most was when I turned around to witness the surroundings of the club. It looked just like the suburbs I live in. I even noticed a man who worked in the building next door. For the entire time my family and I visited the club, the man was looking at the building with tears in his eyes.
I quickly realized that so many people lost their siblings parents partners and friends that day. I remember thinking to myself “What would I do if I lost my dad my mom or my brother?” I can’t imagine ever being in that situation. Even thinking about it brought tears to my eyes.
Outside the building, people had arranged flowers and posters for the victims who lost their lives. These are some of the memorable posters I saw.
“Everyday god is with us. Today, in the face of a tragedy, I have no doubt God is here. I have no doubt God is with all those who died on June 12th. May they rest in peace, and may God bless the lives of those who lost their loved ones. #WeAreOrlando.”
“An attack on one American is an attack on all! As a country, we shall stand strong for nothing can bring us down. #onepulse.”
There were hundreds of cards flowers posters and candles laid out along the fence of the club, all of which dedicated their support for not only the victims but for their families as well.After seeing all of the support, I was able to witness the community’s importance in a time of hardship.
By visiting the scene, it was definitely an eye opener for me. I realized that I was extremely blessed to be able to connect with the victims and to gain a grasp on the severity of what happened on June 12th. Though I may have seen the crime scene on television or in pictures, there was something about walking onto the scene that brought tears to my eyes. However, it was truly great to see the support that the community had to offer. In fact I think that is the best way to overcome a tragedy like this.I am writing here today in memory of all those who lost their lives in Orlando. May we stand strong together as a country to be there for each other in times of hardships. Most importantly, may we not take anything lightly just because we are not affected by it.
