Pride Picnic in Hudson Valley Holds Moment of Silence for Orlando Shooting Victims

Poughkeepsie, NY — A moment of silence was held Sunday for those killed and injured in the mass shooting in Orlando.

Organizers of Queen City Pride went on with plans for its annual Summer Community Picnic and Dance Party at the Locust Grove Estate in the Town of Poughkeepsie.

The world awoke to news of the shooting that by Sunday afternoon saw the death toll rise to 50 with another 53 injured.

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Stephan Hengst, who founded Big Gay Hudson Valley with his husband Patrick Decker, said it was important to go ahead and have the gathering, though it was more subdued than it would have been otherwise.

Hengst said he was contacted by state and local law enforcement and was offered additional security for the picnic, which was accepted.

In opening remarks to the picnickers, Decker said he and Hengst were appreciative that the people who came to the event had decided to continue to be visible.

“It’s very important that we do not take for granted how much work we have to do,” he said.

City of Poughkeepsie Mayor Rob Rolison acknowledged that it was a tough day for everyone.

“The fact that we are here together,” he said, “that is the most important thing we could do.