Rehoboth Beach LGBT community reacts to Orlando shooting
Fifty lives were lost and more than fifty others remain in the hospital after a devastating shooting at a gay nightclub in Orlando Sunday.
It’s all people were talking about on Monday at the Purple Parrot in Rehoboth Beach. It’s a restaurant and bar that also caters to LGBT clientele.
Amanda Dix says, “It’s really like now, it’s coming to this could happen in your hometown in your little place. That to me is the most devastating part of this.”
Michael Giddings says, “It’s gotta stop.”
Folks 47 ABC spoke with believe this shooting was done with hate for the LGBT community.
Steve Elkins says, “But that’s also an attack on all of us in America.”
Elkins’ thoughts mirror those of the federal government. He’s the executive director of CAMP Rehoboth, a non-profit, gay and lesbian community service organization, developed to “Create A More Positive” relationship amongst people in the Rehoboth Beach area.
They held a vigil Sunday night to focus on healing and remembering the lives lost.
Standing in solidarity with Orlando. However, Elkins says Tuesday is about action.
Steve Elkins says, “We’re not going to give in to fear. Two police officers stopped by just a few minutes ago to ask if we need extra patrol and if we’re concerned. While I appreciate so much what they do, I said but I know you’re there, I know that you’ll respond immediately.”
However, Elkins admits this shooting has folks shaken up. CAMP Rehoboth has a social worker on staff whose available for counseling services. For those feeling emotionally strong, Elkins thinks this is a time to channel heartache and even anger, into pushing for change highly debated issues in the U.S. that play a role in this case.
For example, gun control and understanding those of other faiths. However, his bottom line for everyone is the same, don’t live in fear.
Michael Biggins agrees, “We’ve got to stand up and stand strong because if we don’t, they win.”
A new issue of CAMP Rehoboth’s magazine, Letters, will be coming out this Friday. Columnists will be publishing their takes on the tragedy in Orlando.
Adults and youth struggling with grief or those wanting to learn more about local lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community resources can call 211 in Delaware.
