KAMLOOPS — The LGBTQ community in Kamloops, like many across the globe, are grieving, devastated by the murders in Orlando on Saturday night.
They are left with a vulnerable feeling after 49 people were killed by a gunman who stormed a gay nightclub.
“Tragedies can happen at any time, any place, but for the LGBTQ people, these kinds of targeted events seem to have an element of hatred because of who we are,” says Rev. Helen McFadyen from the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Kamloops.
In the 48 hours since the tragedy, love and support for the victims and their families has been overwhelming. Many part of the LGBTQ community say this hate crime is a yet another hurdle in the push for equal rights.
“It’s another reminder that we take two steps ahead, and then one step back,” says McFadyen. “Every time we feel we’re making progress in equality and rights, and building bridges of inclusion, there’s always reminders that the world is not necessarily safe.”
In Canada, gay marriage has been legal for nearly 11 years now. But it was only a year ago this month that a historic Supreme Court decision granted the same rights to all Americans.
But many say there is still a ways to go.
“Rights and equality are certainly enhanced and entrenched in constitutional legislation, but we can’t change the hearts and minds of people necessary,” notes McFadyen.
“Right now, at this time, our greatest desire is to allow a time and place to honour all our emotions.
The Kamloops community will have the opportunity to grieve and show their support. A vigil is scheduled to take place on Thursday night at 7 p.m. at the Kamloops United Church on St. Paul Street.
For McFayden, she hopes one day we can all move past this, so that LGBTQ people are seen in the same light as everyone else in the community.
