Council Unites With Greenwich LBGT Community To Condemn Orlando Shooting

by our RBG Correspondent | Woolwich

The Royal Borough of Greenwich expressed deepest condolences to the people of Orlando, USA, following the mass shooting at a gay club in the early hours of Sunday 12 June 2016.

49 people died in the incident after a 29 year old American of Afghan origin took hostages at the Club in down town Orlando and shot the clubbers using a sub machine gun. 

Deputy Council Leader Danny Thorpe (top) said: "The events in Orlando have affected us all over the past 24 hours. An act of both terror and hate represents a challenge to the values that we hold dear to our hearts."

"That such an event has already become a vehicle for people to exploit and use to inflame tension between communities means that we must all make a stand to reaffirm our objection to violence and hatred, and our belief that freedom of expression and equality is so important."

“We have a strong and vibrant LGBT community in this borough. They are our teachers, police officers, doctors, social workers, friends, family and our loved ones."

“Please join me and faith leaders from the borough at a candlelit vigil tonight at the Town Hall at 5.30pm to stand up against hatred and violence."

“Whenever we are confronted by such horror, let's remember that love wins."

Dr Greg Ussher, CEO at METRO charity responded, saying: "We at METRO found this most recent demonstration of hate very upsetting, as many other people have too. We are sure that many of the people we support, specifically those LGBT people, will have a range of reactions to the events in Orlando – as always we remain available to offer support."

"Sadly such hate continues to be a part of our world, which is why the work that we do in challenging hate, embracing and celebrating difference is still so vitally needed. We are so very grateful to the Royal Borough of Greenwich for their support of this work, having funded us for over 33 years.”

The candlelit vigil will took place at the Town Hall on Wellington Street, Woolwich, SE18 at 5.30pm.