Many are devastated over the senseless act of violence committed on June 12th at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, leaving around 50 people dead and over 50 more injured. Currently there are high demands for blood donations and any other support during what is being called the worst modern day mass shooting in the U.S. Here are just a few different ways to take action regardless of where you live:
Donate blood if eligible
If you don’t live in Orlando or anywhere in Florida, your blood isn’t guaranteed to be delivered to Orlando. But there’s ALWAYS a need for someone to generously donate something to save a life. Contact your local blood services to schedule an appointment. Make sure you meet the requirements and ensure you’ve eaten lots of iron-rich foods like spinach, meat and more or you could get turned away due to low iron levels. If you DO live in Orlando or Florida, you might have to schedule an appointment at a later date due to high numbers of people walking in to donate blood. Regardless, your donation will not go to waste.
Contribute to the GoFundMe set up for the victims of the Pulse shooting
So far the campaign is over halfway towards their goal of 5 million dollars. Equality Florida will consult experts to properly distribute the funds after the fundraiser is over. Bring awareness to the campaign by sharing on Facebook or retweeting it with the hashtag #WeAreOrlando and donate if you’re able.
Donate to and volunteer at a local LGBTQ+ advocacy group
More than likely there’s an LGBTQ+ support and advocacy group near you. These organizations run on donations and support from the community. Donate whatever amount of money you can afford to give or give your time to assisting the group’s efforts. You don’t have to be a member of the LGBTQ+ community to help. If you don’t have much time or financial means to do either, the best thing to do is always be willing to listen to your friends and be a LGBTQ+ ally.
Take a Safe Zone certification class
These classes are popular (and sometimes required) for educators, but they’re typically offered for anyone to take. Taking the two hour class doesn’t make you an expert on LGBTQ+ or fully equipped to handle complex situations. You’re offering a safe place for anyone to come to and confide in you. Maybe someone needs a friend or is questioning their identity. Maybe during a time like this they feel even more unsafe and need to know someone does care.
Attend a vigil to remember the victims
Even if you didn’t know anyone personally, this is a time when community is important. Find or organize a vigil in your community. Be respectful of others and grieve as needed.
