Former President Barack Obama once said, “In the face of hate and violence, we will love one another. We will not give in to fear or turn against each other. Instead, we will stand united as Americans to protect our people and defend our nation.” On June 12th, 2016, the LGBTQ community was tragically attacked resulting in the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history. A year later, we pause to remember the 49 victims of the Orlando Pulse nightclub attack, as well as the 68 individuals who were injured. This June Pride month, we not only stand to honor who we are as a LGBTQ community, but pause to remember those injured and killed celebrating who they were as individuals.

“What happened at Pulse was the darkest day in our city’s history, and we continue to grieve for the victims and fight for those who are still suffering,” Orlando City Commissioner Patty Sheehan said in a statement. “This June 12th, our entire LGBTQ community and our allies need to stand together and continue to show that we are a strong, united city that responds with love.”

Standing in solidarity with the city of Orlando, organizers in Baltimore are planning to hold a silent procession on the anniversary of the tragedy. Gathering at Homewood Friends (3105 North Charles Street) at 7 p.m. and then processing to Cathedral of the Incarnation (4 East University Parkway), the names of the 49 victims will be read during the silent vigil.

Many organizations are available to support those affected by this tragedy. The OnePulse Foundation was established to honor the 49 lives that were taken, the 68 injured victims, the affected survivors and the first responders and healthcare professionals who cared for the victims. The intent of the fund is to support the construction and maintenance of a memorial, community grants to care for the survivors and victims’ families, an educational program to promote amity among all segments of society, endow scholarships for each of the 49 victims, and ultimately a museum showcasing historic artifacts and stories from the event. All donations will be used for the construction and operation of the official memorial and museum, community grants and educational scholarships. For more information or to donate visit Onepulsefoundation.org.