Arlington Human Rights Commission Reacts to Orlando Tragedy

ARLINGTON, MA—Individuals and groups around not only the Commonwealth but the country are offering support and calling for action after this weekend's massacre in Orlando. 

Mel Goldsipe, the vice president of the Arlington Human Rights Commission, told Patch that the AHRC will be discussing how Arlington can best respond to the events of this weekend, as well as provide support to the local  LGBTQIA+ and Latinx communities. In addition, Goldsipe also provided the following statement to Patch:

The Arlington Human Rights Commission joins with people in Orlando and worldwide in grieving for those killed in the mass shooting at Pulse. While no communities have been left untouched by the epidemic of gun violence in this country, it is important to remember that this shooter specifically chose a gay nightclub, and it was Latinx Night. That this mass murder happened during Pride Month is especially painful. So we especially hold the LGBTQIA+ and Latinx communities in our hearts right now.

The next AHRC meeting will take place at 8 p.m. Wednesday at the Jefferson Cutter House located at 611 Massachusetts Ave. in the lower-level conference room. The entrance is in the back by the parking lot. 

RELATED:

• A vigil in Boston is set for tonight at 6. Others include in Cambridge at 5, Wellesley at 7, Fitchburg at 8, and Northampton at 7 on Wednesday. Waltham is hosting a prayer service at 6:30.

• Two of the victims that were identified as of Monday afternoon had Massachusetts ties.

• The Boston Fire Department is sending two of its own to Orlando for aid.

• Local religious organizations have taken to social media to react. The Sharon-based Islamic Center of New England has condemned the attack.

• Communities from across the state stood in solidarity with the victims. Resilient crowds celebrated their Pride in Boston (photos here).

The shooting took place at Pulse Orlando Night Club & Ultra Lounge, a popular gay bar, where about 350 people were dancing and drinking. Officials say that 50 people were killed and 53 people were injured. 

The AHRC will also be holding a free public event on June 24 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Arlington Center of the Arts, located at 41 Foster St.,  for those who want to learn more about their diverse community and creating a safe space for everyone. The event is entitled Intergenerational Stories of Growing up Queer. You can reserve your free ticket to the event here.

>> Photo by Joe Lipovich, Patch Staff