On Monday, the U.S. Senate passed without opposition a resolution from Florida’s two U.S. senators–Republicans Marco Rubio and Rick Scott–marking the “seventh anniversary of the terrorist attack on Pulse Nightclub” and “recognizing the anniversary and honoring the 49 innocent victims.”
Both senators weighed in on the attack on Monday.
“It was seven years ago today that we lost 49 innocent lives in an attack on the city of Orlando, our Hispanic community and our LGBTQ community in an act of evil terrorism. I will always remember that day and the weeks after, spending time in Orlando talking to loved ones of those lost, going to funerals and wakes, sitting in hospital rooms and listening to the stories of heartbreak and grief. But this act of evil, meant to break us and spread hate into the world, had the opposite effect for the people of Orlando and the state of Florida. Instead, it brought us together with endless acts of unity, love and hope by our first responders, community leaders, Floridians and people from across the world. Today, we honor the memory of those 49 innocent lives and renew our steadfast commitment to fight against the evil and hate that took them from us,” Scott said.
“Seven years ago, our community was shaken to its core by the tragic terrorist attack at Pulse nightclub. The 49 victims of this senseless act of violence were more than numbers. They were sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, friends, and neighbors. They were members of our community, and they will never be forgotten. In the midst of the chaos and heartbreak, we saw the best of humanity as we came together to support each other and honor the victims. My prayers remain with the families and friends of those who were lost. We will never forget them,” said Rubio.
Other members of the Florida delegation also weighed in on Monday.
“Seven years ago, 49 innocent lives were taken at Pulse nightclub. Our #OrlandoStrong community came together to show the world that we will never let hate win,” noted U.S. Rep. Darren Soto, D-Fla. “Today, we remember our angels and reaffirm our commitment to keeping their spirits alive.”
