PULSE remembrance ceremony to be held on Saturday in SBY

SALISBURY, Md. – Saturday marks the five year anniversary of the biggest hate crime in U.S. history. On June 12th, 2016 a gunman opened fire at PULSE in Orlando, Florida. 49 people were shot and killed, with 58 others injured, at the gay bar and nightclub. To honor those lost, Salisbury PFLAG and Moms Demand Action are holding a remembrance ceremony at the Salisbury Riverwalk Amphitheater.

PFLAG Board President Nicole Hollywood says there will be speakers, live music, and a moment of silence. “The harm and trauma of hate-motivated crimes has a rippling effect. It extends far beyond the immediately victims,” said Hollywood.

Hollywood says having a space to come together and heal is one of the best ways to move forward and grow stronger. “It’s the largest hate crime in US history, and it’s going to be all over the news. It’s better for us to have the opportunity to come together, share our emotions, and talk about them, and have an opportunity to celebrate life where we can, celebrate our progress, and hold reverence for the ones we’ve lost,” said Hollywood.

The event is happening from 8 to 9 p.m. It’s free and open to anyone who would like to come out and support the LGBTQ+ community.