Statement on recent mass shooting

We will not be deterred from living our lives openly and honestly with the foundation of freedoms we have as Americans that millions of our brave men and women died to preserve.

The recent mass shooting in Orlando illustrates hate for our way of life. Hate for a people who believe in being able to marry the person we love. Hate for a people that empower each other rather than governing with an iron fist of fear. America doesn’t have to be great again, we are already great.

Our way of life is a shining beacon of hope to so many. No terrorist, domestic or abroad, will intimidate us or threaten us from living our lives as we deem fit. This wasn’t just an attack on the LGBT community, it’s an attack on all of us.

This is a prime example of how homophobia, hate, fear, taken to the extreme, can be deadly. Mutual respect, love, tolerance, and acceptance are critical to moving past an outdated prism of viewing people who are different. Our differences make America what it is.

​Our diversity is a strength not a weakness. Something, those who wish to bring us down, will never understand.