What is Pulse Night of Remembrance?

Pulse Night of Remembrance is held every year in the United States on June 12. The day marks the anniversary of the mass shooting at Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida. On that night in 2016, 49 people were killed and dozens more injured during a Latin-themed LGBTQ+ event. It was one of the deadliest shootings in US history and left a lasting impact on the LGBTQ+ and Latinx communities.

This day is a time to honor the victims, support survivors, and stand against hate. It brings together people from all backgrounds to remember those who were lost and to call for action against violence and discrimination. Pulse Night of Remembrance is not only about looking back, but also about shaping a more inclusive future.

History and Origin

The tragedy took place on June 12, 2016, when a gunman opened fire inside Pulse nightclub in Orlando. The attack was an act of hate targeting LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly people of color. In the days that followed, vigils and tributes were held across the country. The loss was deeply felt by the queer community, by the Latinx community, and by everyone affected by violence and intolerance.

Out of this grief came unity. The onePULSE Foundation was founded to support survivors, honor the victims, and build a memorial and museum on the site. In 2021, the location of the nightclub was federally designated as a national memorial. Since then, Pulse Night of Remembrance has grown into a yearly moment of reflection, healing, and advocacy for justice.

Who participates in Pulse Night of Remembrance?

• Survivors and families: Attend memorials and vigils to honor those lost and share their experiences.
• LGBTQ+ communities: Organize events, lead discussions, and gather to remember and resist.
• Allies and advocates: Show support through public actions, donations, and community work.
• Elected leaders: Take part in remembrance ceremonies and deliver public statements.
• Local residents: Join in solidarity events to support their community and oppose hate.

Slogans and Themes

The day is defined by themes like remembrance, unity, and love. Slogans such as “We Will Not Let Hate Win,” “Orlando United,” and “Love Is Love” are often used. These words speak to strength in grief and hope in action. The focus is on building bridges, honoring those lost, and making sure such violence never happens again.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

Colors

• Rainbow: Represents the diversity and pride of the LGBTQ+ community.
• Black: Symbol of mourning and the pain of loss.
• White: Stands for peace, healing, and remembrance.

Symbols

• Candles: Used in vigils to represent lives lost and the light of hope.
• Hearts: Express love and unity among communities.
• Angel wings: Honor the victims as peaceful spirits never forgotten.

Patterns

• Ribbon motifs: Often rainbow-colored, worn to show support and remembrance.
• Unity circles: Represent collective strength and community support.
• Memorial murals: Portraits and names used in tributes and remembrance walls.

Most Used Hashtags

• #PulseNightOfRemembrance
• #OrlandoUnited
• #WeWillNotLetHateWin
• #LoveIsLove
• #RememberThe49

How do you celebrate Pulse Night of Remembrance?

• Join a vigil: Attend a candlelight event in person or online to honor the victims.
• Share their names: Post photos or tributes on social media to keep their memory alive.
• Support survivors: Donate to mental health services or organizations helping the affected.
• Raise awareness: Educate others about LGBTQ+ rights, hate crimes, and inclusive safety.
• Show visible support: Wear pride symbols or display a flag in memory and solidarity.

Why is Pulse Night of Remembrance important?

This day reminds us of what happens when hate is allowed to grow. It is a moment to remember the lives lost in the Pulse nightclub tragedy, and to support those still healing. But it is also about more than memory. It is about taking a stand against violence, building safe spaces for LGBTQ+ people, and refusing to let hate define the story.

Pulse Night of Remembrance matters because it keeps the conversation going. It turns sorrow into strength. It helps create a world where love, not hate, has the final word.