“49 lost friends. 53 carrying wounds temporary or permanent. Four years after Pulse, I remain assured that ‘Orlando Strong’ was never just a slogan,” said Val Demings. “It was a promise. We promised to support each other, to love each other, and to never forget those we lost, nor those who are still with us.”
The Pulse nightclub is in Representative Val Demings’ Orlando congressional district. Her reflection honored the Pulse victims four years after the terrorist attack.
“My bishop once called the Pulse nightclub a place for ‘late-night fellowship.’ Dance, laughter, friendship, love — it sounds so basic, but when it can be taken from you in an instant, you see how precious it is,” Rep. Demings added. “Late night fellowship is worth fighting for. Our lives, and the lives of our children, are worth fighting for. Today, tomorrow, and the next day, we recommit ourselves to the struggle.”
Demings said “Love Wins” while admitting the fight for political progress continues. She called for an end to gun violence in America.
“I am inspired by the passion of the advocates who have turned tragedy into action; who saw the tragedy of Parkland and said ‘I know what you’ve been through, and I can help.’ I draw faith from the quiet strength of those who have continued on in the face of such unbearable loss, even if it’s just one day at a time. I stand with you. We all stand with you,” Demings said.
“Four years later, even as we continue to fight for the equal rights of every person, I know that we will win, because Love Wins. Even as we fight to rid America of gun violence, I know that right makes might, and together we continue to be Orlando Strong.”
