Pride Winnipeg holds vigil for Orlando shooting victims

Winnipeggersgathered Monday to mourn the loss of at least 49 people in a mass shooting at an Orlando, Fla., night club over the weekend.

"We are inviting the whole communityeverybody in Winnipeg or the surrounding communities to come in and reflect on the tragedy that happened," said Jeff Myall, the public relations director for Pride Winnipeg."In Canada, we're not as exposed to the gun violence that exists in the United States, and with LGBTTQ nightclubs traditionally being safe spaces for the community, the fact that this actually happened in a nightclub is quite unsettling,"

The shooting happened early Sunday morning at Pulse Nighclub, an LGBT bar in Orlando. The gunman used an assault rifle and a handgun in the attacks. He was later killed during a police shootout.

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"Historically, LGBTTQ nightclubs were a safe space for people who were not out or were scared about being outed to go and be able to be themselves in a safe and inclusive environment," said Myall. "The fact that this has actually happened in that type of the space that someone was able to go in with an assault rifle and cause that kind of harm and damage is unsettling."

Pride Winnipeg planned a candlelight vigil to honour the victims and their families. Itgot underway at8:30 p.m. on the steps of the Manitoba Legislative Building Monday.

"We want people in Orlando to stay strong, be proud of who you are. It's a real tragic thing that happened, but you are not alone. Winnipeg stands in solidarity with you,"said Evan Maydaniuk, rally and parade director for Pride Winnipeg.

Maydaniuk said when he first heard about the shooting, he was shocked.

"It hits really close to home, because it's the first time my own people, we will say, have actually had this happen to them in my lifetime," he said.

Pride Winnipeg is working with their safety and security director to ensure people are safe at Monday's vigil, Myall said.

"We do diligent work on our safety and security. We do have things in place every year to ensure that we are being as careful as possible, to ensure there is safety and security for all participants involved," said Myall.

Winnipeg's Rainbow Resource Centre held a vigil Sunday night at their offices. On Monday, Pride Winnipegis hoping a number of dignitaries and others will speak about safety in theLGBTcommunity.

June is Pride Month in Canada, and Myall said the shooting will lead to many difficult conversations over the coming weeks.

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"It's also going to be a catalyst, I think, that's required for reflection on LGBTTQ safety," said Myall. "Our theme this year wasBe Authentic,and at the end of the day, everyone should be their authentic selves and not be afraid to do that. If we are afraid to be ourselves, then we're doing exactly what these people want, which is to hide."