Members of East Hawaii’s LGBT community and its allies gathered Sunday night in downtown Hilo for a candlelight vigil at Mooheau Bandstand and Park to honor the shooting victims at Pulse gay bar in Orlando, Fla.
Members of East Hawaii’s LGBT community and its allies gathered Sunday night in downtown Hilo for a candlelight vigil at Mooheau Bandstand and Park to honor the shooting victims at Pulse gay bar in Orlando, Fla.
Travis Rogers, organizer of the vigil, said he “heard the news and just had to do something.” Rogers shared a personal story of homophobic violence, and though Hawaii’s LGBT residents come from diverse backgrounds and experiences, most have these kind of stories, he said.
Rogers also shared his hope for people standing up against hatred and making communities safe for all.
“I feel for those who’ve lost their lives,” Rogers said. “This homophobic violence must end.”
Individuals or organizations who want to help make the Big Island a safe and friendly place for LGBT residents can support the fourth annual Hawaii Island Pride Parade and Festival from noon-4 p.m. July 9 in downtown Hilo. Volunteers are needed to join planning meetings at 6 p.m. every Tuesday at the Church of the Holy Apostles, 1407 Kapiolani St.
For more information about Hawaii Island Pride and the parade, visit www.hawaiiislandpride.org or www.facebook.com/events/1116661861711617/?ti=icl.