Today the worst mass killing in US history took place in a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida.
A lone gunman, armed with an automatic weapon and who knows what other firepower, walked into the Pulse club and opened fire. At the moment 50 people are confirmed dead and another 53 are being treated in hospital for their injuries.
It is a horrific crime, heartbreaking and incomprehensible in its scale.
We have watched today in tearful despair as the news got ever grimmer from the scene, the pain and terror of those caught up in the attack and of the friends and families waiting in dread for news palpable.
Speculation is naturally rife as to the “inspiration” behind this dreadful attack.
I’ll spare you the time – it’s hate.
Religion isn’t the only driver of homophobia and hatred towards LGBTQ people, but it sure as hell provides a neat cover for those who cannot abide the progress made on civil rights for a minority that has suffered – and in many places around the world continues to suffer – blatant discrimination and oppression.
Well, hate can never be allowed to win. Especially when all we want to do is love and be loved.
Share the love. And keep in your hearts everyone who went out for a night of fun and dancing with friends and lovers – and who will never go home because of one individual so filled with hate.
Brighton_Jock 