The Dose: Remembering Orlando Shooting Victims With Stories You Need To See
Adele breaks down in tears, J.K. Rowling's somber tribute and how you can take action after the Orlando massacre.
America's heart is heavy as we mourn yet another tragic event of violence spurred from terrorism, hatred and intolerance. Gunman Omar Mateen, who pledged allegiance to ISIS and was investigated by the FBI, shot and killed 49 people and injured 53 at Orlando's biggest gay nightclub, Pulse, on June 12. The tragedy has been a wake up call on gun control in America, but the hate crime also reminds us of the animosity that still exists towards members of the LGBTIA+ community who have strived to fight for equal rights.
To pay tribute to the Orlando massacre, here are the stories that you need to see.
1. Orlando mom reveals heartbreaking final texts from her son killed in shooting
Orlando mother Mina Justice revealed the horrifying texts she received from her son Eddie, whose name was added to the list of deceased earlier this morning. Eddie texted his mother from the bathroom where he was held hostage telling her he loved her and was "gonna die."
2. The massacre is a grim reminder for millions of LGBT Americans
One of the most devastating parts of this tragedy is that Pulse was a safe space for many LGBT members free to be themselves. While Mateen pledged allegiance to ISIS, this was also a homophobic attack, but we shouldn't use fear to pit two marginalized groups against each other.
3. Adele dedicates June 12 concert to Orlando victims and breaks down in tears on stage
During her concert in Antwerp, Belgium, the singer choked up on her words when dedicating her performance to the shooting victims. Other celebrities who spoke out include LGBT icons Melissa Etheridge and Adam Lambert, who weighed in on the tragedy affecting their "brothers and sisters.
4. J.K. Rowling mourns death of Harry Potter worker killed in shooting
One of the victims, 22-year-old Luis Vielma, was an employee at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios. J.K. Rowling posted a picture of Luis and wrote she couldn't "stop crying" over losing one of her own. Her heartbreaking reaction also pulled in a slew of other tweets honoring Luis.
5. Here's what you can do to help in the wake of Orlando tragedy
In a situation that's so grizzly and completely horrifying, it's easy to feel helpless. But there are countless ways you can get involved and make a difference, including donating blood, contacting your representatives, and more.
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