3 Ways to Help Orlando Shooting Victims

There has never been a tragedy to hit the LGBTQ community like Sunday’s shooting in Orlando, FL. The worst mass shooting in American history, many are left feeling heartbroken and hopeless. We here at Proudly Yours are as sad and bewildered as everyone else and the healing process certainly won’t happen overnight. President Obama said in his address on Sunday morning,“In the face of hate and violence, we will love one another,” rather than giving in to fear, “we will stand united, as Americans, to protect our people, and defend our nation, and to take action against those who threaten us.” He also said that “to actively do nothing is a decision, as well.” Instead of feeling hopeless and doing nothing, we came up with a list of three easy things every person can do to help.

1.) Donate Set up by Equality Florida on Sunday morning, a GoFundMe page for the victims of the attack has already raised over $1 million. But Florida needs so much more. According to the page, “Equality Florida is collecting contributions via this GoFundMe page to support the victims of the horrific shooting at Orlando’s Pulse Nightclub. Regarding distribution of funds, we are working with a team of attorneys and experts, including the National Center for Victims of Crime, which deployed funds in both Chattanooga and Aurora, to ensure funds are distributed correctly.” Anything will help and it’s something you can do from your laptop.

2.) Call Fed with up local and national gun laws? Let your mayor, congressperson and senator know. It’s their job to listen to unhappy voters, so put them to work! Here’s a great website with contact information of state, local and federal politicians.

3.) Vote The most powerful way to change LGBTQ laws, fight hateful legislation and help change gun laws is voting. Get educated by reading sites like On the Issues and vote for local officials as well as president this November.