Community invited to Join “Acts of Love & Kindness” and “49 Bells” to mark Fourth Year Remembrance of Pulse Nightclub Shooting
“Our community is facing unprecedented challenges again in the form COVID-19. Orlando’s strength is our spirit of community and unwavering resilience – and it’s those qualities that we must call upon once again,” said Jennifer Foster, Executive Director of One Orlando Alliance. “After one of the most horrific tragedies in our nation’s history, we chose to make our collective response one of love and unity. As we navigate this new crisis, we do so wielding our strengths – together. Now is the time to #ActLoveGive and to remind ourselves, and each other, what makes Orlando so special,” she added.
Social media will play a major role as individuals and organizations participate in Acts of Love and Kindness, big or small, by sharing photos, videos and by writing about their experiences using the hashtag: #ActLoveGive. This year, One Orlando Alliance is also asking volunteers and donors to support local nonprofits and relief funds who are assisting those in need as a result of the COVID-19 crisis.
For individuals and organizations seeking ways to get involved, survivors have come together to create a list of the top ten ways they want to see love shown. Additionally, the families of the 49 created a beautiful list of 49 “Acts of Love and Kindness” to honor their loved ones. Several organizations like the onePULSE Foundation, Orlando Gay Chorus and Come Out With Pride will be hosting virtual events to remember those taken and the survivors. People, companies, nonprofits and volunteers are asked to visit www.ActLoveGive.com to learn more.
Churches, temples, synagogues and mosques around the world are also participating in “Acts of Love and Kindness” through the “49 Bells” initiative. Places of worship are volunteering to toll their bells 49 times at noon on June 12, 2019 in tribute of those taken. This year, the 49Bells tribute is being organized by parents of two of the victims taken at Pulse and will be streamed on One Orlando Alliance’s social media. The onePULSE Virtual Remembrance Ceremony will be held at 7:00pm.
“As we adhere to social distancing for the health and safety of our community, the current public health crisis won’t prevent us from spreading the message of love and hope and unity. The Pulse tragedy was the darkest day in Orlando’s history, yet hate did not win nor divide us. Four years later, we continue to show love, kindness and compassion towards one another while Orlando’s culture of inclusiveness continues to grow and evolve. That’s what #OrlandoUnited is all about and that’s why we encourage others to #ActLoveGive,” said Foster.
One Orlando Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to unify and empower LGBTQ+ organizations in Central Florida. The coalition includes over 40 organizations working together to transform Central Florida into a safe and inclusive community where all LGBTQ+ people can thrive. For more information, go to www.oneorlandoalliance.org.