I'm sure you all have heard about the tragedy in Orlando that occurred on Sunday, where a man named Omar Mateen went in the gay nightclub, Pulse, and killed 49 people and injured 53. (This information may change since the event is so recent). I know there are so many debates about gun control and Muslims in the U.S. since this horrible tragedy, but none of that is as important than the safety of innocent lives, more specifically, the lives of LGBTQ+ people.

When I first heard the news I was deeply saddened by those lives that were lost and the families of those victims. Admittedly though, I had quite a selfish thought, thinking about my own safety, and the safety of other LGBTQ+ people that I love. Is it even safe for us to go to pride, a gay nightclub, or even be with your significant other in public?

The answer is no. Because of this, I will not be attending the pride in my local city, or be going to any gay nightclubs, and I will make sure I keep a platonic distance from my girlfriend in public. If anyone I don't know asks if I'm gay, I will probably lie and say no, and on Facebook I have contemplated deleting my profile picture with my girlfriend and keeping my relationship status on Facebook private. Many of you may think these measures are too extreme, but I refuse to let myself or someone I love get hurt because of someone's pathetic bigotry. If you saw the looks I've gotten in public or the reaction I get sometimes when someone finds out I'm a lesbian, you might feel the same way.

Since the legalization of same-sex marriage in the United States, many people, myself included, have mistakenly believed this means that our society has become more accepting of the LGBTQ+ community. Unfortunately, laws do not signify the acceptance of all, just like there are laws against discrimination against women and people of color and some are still prejudiced against these groups.

If you are also a member of the LGBTQ+ community, please, please try to stay safe, especially since this tragedy is so new. I wouldn't be surprised if there are other bigots who are influenced by Mateen and try to harm other LGBTQ+ people. If you happen to go to a gay nightclub or pride event, look for the nearest exits and leave the building if you see any suspicious behavior. Don't assume any place is safe just because police are around, because despicable people tend to get around these precautions.

I send my most sincere condolences to the victims and their families, and can only hope for the day when these tragedies no longer occur. For now, whether you are part of the LGBTQ+ community or not, please take precaution in any crowded area.