California Legislative LGBT Caucus Statement on the Pulse Nightclub Shooting Anniversary

Sacramento, CA – California Legislative LGBT Caucus Chair Assemblymember Evan Low (D-Silicon Valley) and Vice Chair Senator Ricardo Lara (Bell Gardens) commented on the one year anniversary of the Pulse Nightclub shooting. It was the deadliest mass shooting in the U.S. and the deadliest attack on the LGBT community in American history.

Assemblymember Evan Low (D-Silicon Valley), Chair of the California Legislative LGBT Caucus:

“One year ago, 49 of our brothers and sisters lost their lives in the deadliest mass shooting in American history. Armed with an assault rifle and hatred in his heart, the Pulse Nightclub shooter intended to sow fear among the LGBT community and silence our pride. However, in the face of such violent hatred, we have only grown stronger, louder and more persistent.  

The 49 individuals who lost their lives and the countless loved ones who continue to grieve will never be forgotten. The California LGBT Caucus is with you in solemn solidarity. In the face of hate, we continue to stand tall and remember to not just be out but speak out.”

Senator Ricardo Lara (D-Bell Gardens), Vice Chair of the California Legislative LGBT Caucus:

“Although this horrific tragedy happened almost a year ago today, we still grieve with those who experienced this act of terror.

Last month, I was proud to honor two of the survivors of the Pulse night club shooting at Long Beach Pride, where I had the opportunity to learn more about the courageous work that they are doing around this terrible day in American history to create a memorial of love, unity, and hope in Orlando and throughout the country.

The Pulse family truly embodies the resilient and unbreakable spirit of LGBT Pride Month, that love conquers fear and that all of us, gay and straight, will stand together united against those who would seek to divide us with violence, fear, and hate.”