During the evening of June 12, 2018, queer members of the Hampton Roads community and their allies are taking to the streets of Downtown Norfolk to memorialize the 49 victims of the 2016 Pulse Nightclub tragedy and create a space for love, healing, and dialogue for those affected.
June 12 is the anniversary of when 49 people were shot and killed at the Pulse Nightclub in Orlando, Florida during Latin Night, resulting in a devastating loss for the Queer Latinx, Queer Black, and Queer People of Color (QPOC) communities.
A sunset remembrance march is planned for 7:30 p.m., on Tuesday, June 12 beginning in front of the Norfolk Federal Building near the corner of Granby and Tazewell Streets. The march will proceed down Granby Street and conclude at Wisconsin Square Garden. The distance covered will be one half-mile, replicating the distance from the Pulse Nightclub to Orlando Health hospital, and will take place in the street to accommodate those with disabilities or mobility needs. Marshals will be present to assist and ensure that nobody is left out or behind.
Upon arrival at Wisconsin Square Park, a memorial service will take place which includes speakers, a video presentation and reading of the 49 names, and a symbolic gesture of remembrance. Attendees are encouraged, but not required, to bring a candle or a few to share.
June is widely recognized as LGBTQ+ Pride month, a time when allies happily join their queer loved ones in celebration. At this event, queer community members are calling upon their allies to stand alongside them in a time of mourning as well. The organizers of the event aim to create a brave space to grieve, a visible space to be seen, and an LGBTQ+ space that recognizes and demands attention from the Hampton Roads community.
- If you are interested in helping make this event a success, you may make a donation to help defray costs associated with event production here: www.fundly.com/pulse-remembrance-march
- March organizers also need volunteers! They are need of marshals*, mental health counselors, arts & crafts people to help with signs & the banner**, & also help with set-up & tear-down!*Training on June 9th!
** Banner and sign workshop on June 3rd!
The Pulse Remembrance March of Hampton Roads was conceived and launched by a group of young queer activists from across the Seven Cities, without an organization, agenda, or platform to demand true change from the community at large. No businesses, organizations, or political endorsements were employed in the formation of this demonstration.
For more information about the event or to find out how you can help, please visit the event page on Facebook or contact the event organizers Sarah Hustead, Connor Norton, and Amy St. George at PulseMarchNFK@gmail.com.
