2016 – PULSE NIGHTCLUB SHOOTING

On June 12, 2016, Omar Mateen attacked the Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando Florida, leaving 49 dead and 53 wounded. The Orlando community gathered later that week to honor those who have been killed during this tragic event. “It was really inspiring how the community worked together. They had a ton of get-togethers, and they lit candles, which was really heartfelt,” junior Christina Hayes said.

According to NPR, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer tweeted a response to the reported shooting. “We will not be defined by the act of a cowardly hater. We will be defined by how we respond, how we treat each other,” Dyer said.