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Today marks ten years since the tragic Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando, Florida, which claimed the lives of 49 people. The city is commemorating the anniversary with various events and activities to honor the victims and support the LGBTQ community. Local businesses, churches, and nonprofits are hosting fundraisers and gatherings throughout the day.
At Orlando City Hall, an exhibit titled "Created in Community: Portraits of Pulse" features 49 portraits of the victims. These portraits, designed by local artist Jeff Sonksen, were completed in 2017 by families, friends, and community members. The exhibition is a collaborative effort to transform grief into collective remembrance and healing. More details about the exhibit can be found on the Pulse Orlando website.
The First United Methodist Church will hold its annual remembrance ceremony at 5:30 p.m., featuring performances by the Orlando Gay Chorus and City of Orlando Poet Laureate Camara Gaither. The ceremony will conclude with a candlelight vigil and the reading of the victims' names. For more information, visit Pulse Orlando Events.
Orlando is also working on a permanent memorial at the site of the attack, which will include a reflecting pool, a healing garden, and a survivor's wall. The city is 60% complete with the project, according to WFTV 9.