ORLANDO, Fla. — A float in the Rose Parade in Pasadena, California, on Monday honored the victims and survivors of the Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando, Florida.
On June 12, 49 people were killed and more than 50 others were injured inside the nightclub when a gunman opened fire.
The AIDS Healthcare Foundation commissioned the float and will feature a white dove, a double rainbow and 49 stars to mark the victims. During the procession, 49 white doves were released.
Pulse owner Barbara Poma and Orlando Commissioner Patty Sheehan were on the float.
"What we want the world to know is that we aren't destroyed by a hate-filled man. We were lifted up in love by all these amazing families and how everyone came together," Sheehan told Channel 9's Nancy Alvarez.
Pulse survivors, including Victor Baez, were on the float. He said participating in the events like the parade is another step toward healing.
“The people have welcomed us. We’re receiving nothing but love here in California and we’re proud to be here representing Orlando,” Baez said. “I want to get more involved, speak on behalf of brothers and sisters that were lost and all the survivors. I believe I have a voice now and I want to make good use of it.”
Read other related stories involving Pulse:
- Orlando SWAT team shares tactics from night of Pulse attack with other agencies
- Nearly 2,000 quilts sewn for Pulse survivors, first responders
- Still no decision on future of Pulse nightclub in Orlando
Cox Media Group
