Project Against Violent Encounters (PAVE) would like to offer a few thoughts following the shooting that happened at Pulse, a gay nightclub, in Orlando, Florida on June 12. PAVE is horrified to hear that this nightclub was a target of transphobic and homophobic violence. 49 people were left dead and 53 were wounded by the gunman. Our hearts break for those families that lost parents, siblings, children, and best friends. We want the community to know that PAVE has strung rainbow hearts in our windows to let the community know that we stand in solidarity with our LGBTQ community in Bennington. We want Orlando to know we are thinking of them and we will not stop thinking of them. This mass shooting is one that will not be forgotten.
We will take this time to let our community know that PAVE does not exclusively provide services for only female, heterosexual, cis-gendered victims. PAVE is here to support any victim of domestic or sexual violence, we do not discriminate based on sex, gender, or sexual orientation. Our mission is to end all sexual and domestic violence. If you are concerned about yourself, or someone you know, please contact PAVE at our 24-Hour Hotline, 802-442-2111 or our office at 802-442-2370. We have trained advocates waiting to help you.
Please keep Orlando in your thoughts and prayers this week.
