One Year Later: Remembering the Victims of the Pulse Nightclub Shooting

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 12, 2017

Contact: Twaun Samuel or Rykia Dorsey

Phone: (202) 225-2201

One Year Later: Remembering the Victims of the Pulse Nightclub Shooting

Washington, D.C.—Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43), Ranking Member of the House Financial Services Committee, issued the following statement on the anniversary of the Orlando Pulse nightclub tragedy:

"Today, I join with my colleagues in Congress in reflecting on the tragic massacre that took place one year ago today at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida. My thoughts and prayers remain with the families and friends of the victims who in some cases may be still grieving. We understand that when the cameras leave and the media shifts its attention elsewhere, these loved ones are left alone and will often times spend many years coming to terms with such a horrific and senseless act of violence. On this day, we honor the lives of the victims and recommit ourselves to doing all that we can to unite our nation on the belief that all Americans are worthy of respect and dignity, and that no one should ever have to live in fear.

"This past weekend, and in honor of LGBT Pride Month, I joined with thousands in Los Angeles to celebrate the progress that has been made and to resist all those who pose a threat to this community's values of love, peace, acceptance, and inclusivity. Sadly, the Orlando shooting is a painful reminder of just how far we still must go in order to overcome the hatred and injustices that are still targeted towards the LGBT community.

"As we reflect on the Orlando tragedy, let us also remember all the victims of homophobic violence in this country. Every American citizen has a responsibility to forcibly condemn such acts. I continue to stand in solidarity with the LGBT community as we fight for an inclusive society that guarantees equality and justice for all."