FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 12, 2025
Contact: Terence Stewart
Email: tstewart@atlantablackpride.org
Phone: 678-946-2075
Atlanta Black Pride Remembers the 49 Lives Lost at Pulse and Honors All Those Forever Changed
ATLANTA, GA – Today, on the ninth anniversary of the tragic shooting at Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida, Atlanta Black Pride, Inc. pauses to remember the 49 beautiful souls whose lives were cut short and to honor the countless others whose lives were forever changed by this act of hate and violence.
On June 12, 2016, what should have been a night of celebration, love, and community at Pulse—a sanctuary for LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly our Latinx siblings—became the site of unimaginable tragedy. The victims, ranging in age from 18 to 50, represented the vibrant diversity of our community: sons and daughters, partners and friends, dreamers and achievers who were simply living their authentic lives.
“Nine years later, we carry their memory with us not just today, but every day,” said Terence Stewart, President and CEO of Atlanta Black Pride, Inc. “The attack on Pulse was an attack on all of us—on our right to exist, to love, to celebrate our identities without fear. But in the face of hatred, our community has responded with resilience, unity, and an unwavering commitment to creating safer spaces for all LGBTQ+ individuals.
The Pulse tragedy reminds us that the fight for equality and safety is far from over. LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly those who are Black, Brown, and transgender, continue to face disproportionate levels of violence and discrimination. At Atlanta Black Pride, we remain steadfast in our mission to create affirming spaces where all members of our community can thrive without fear.
As we remember the victims of Pulse, we also acknowledge the survivors who continue to heal and find strength each day. We honor the first responders who ran toward danger, the medical professionals who fought to save lives, and the Orlando community that wrapped its arms around those who were hurting.
“Our remembrance today is also a renewed commitment to action,” Stewart continued. “We must continue advocating for policies that protect LGBTQ+ individuals, supporting organizations that serve our community, and creating spaces where love triumphs over hate. The legacy of the 49 lives lost at Pulse must be one of progress, not just grief.
Atlanta Black Pride encourages community members to honor this day through acts of love and service. Whether it’s supporting local LGBTQ+ organizations, checking in on friends and chosen family, or simply living authentically and proudly, we all have a role to play in building the more inclusive world that the Pulse victims deserved to see.
As we move forward, we do so with the names and memories of the 49 written on our hearts. Their light continues to shine through every act of love and moment of pride, and they step toward a more just and equitable world.
We remember Pulse. We remember our people. And we will continue to fight in their name.
In remembrance,
Terence Stewart
President & CEO
Atlanta Black Pride, Inc.