Over the weekend, the world felt a heavy heart as hate showed its ugly face yet again. 49 people – people spending time with friends, family, loved ones – lost their lives in an Orlando gay nightclub to senseless gun violence and bigotry.
As an immediate response to the chaos taking place the night of the attack, Facebook reactivated its ‘Safety Check’ – a temporary feature that allows users in tragedy struck areas to alert their Facebook friends that they are safe and accounted for. Once a user is marked safe, their friends receive a notification directly to their account.
Photo Credit: PC Mag
This ability to provide its users with instant updates on the people they care about is an example of social media in its most powerful form. We are so often reminded of its harmful effects that we forget it can connect the world for good as well. We can use these platforms in times of crises to reach lost friends, provide solace, show compassion, and perpetuate love when humanity needs it the most.
I have people near and dear to my heart who are members of the LGBT community. Seeing an attack that not only exemplifies a complete lack of respect for life in general but goes even further to disregard their right to equality and safety breaks my heart. However, I am proud to see the world virtually holding hands against violence. Through the use of #PrayforOrlando and #OrlandoUnited, we stand together to not allow hate the last word.
My thoughts and prayers go out to all those whose lives were forever changed by this. If you would like to help the victims and their families, here are the ways you can donate.
