Pictured L-R Jennyfer Hernandez, Lisa Delao, Flor Lo’pez Trejo, and Michael “Mikey” Trujillo.

On June 12 an observance marking the first anniversary of the mass murder of 49 and the injury of 53 people at the Pulse Nightclub in Orlando, Florida was marked with an hour of reflection and words of encouragement. The service was coordinated by staff and volunteers of the Virginia Anti-Violence Project. About 50 people attended the event held in Byrd Park.

The bright blue skies and white clouds, the gentle sounds of the lake, the music of birds and the calm breezes were a perfect setting for people to share thoughts and prayers for the dead and the living. It was a chapel where all were welcomed and encompassed.
The service included the reading of the 49 names with candles being illuminated as each name was recited in both Spanish and English. Spanish translation was provided throughout the service.

May we never forget Orlando. Thank you Virginia Anti-Violence Project for helping us remember and heal.