ORLANDO, Fla. – On Monday night, News 6 hosted an in-person community conversation, moderated by News 6 anchor Julie Broughton, featuring members of the LGBTQ+ community, allies, advocates, and local voices discussing healing, visibility, cultural shifts, community connection, and the work still ahead in Central Florida since Pulse.
We explored how the LGBTQ+ community and allies have worked together, evolved, and pushed forward in the years since Pulse. We began by creating space for reflection on the memories of Pulse and the lasting impact of June 12, 2016, discussing how the tragedy changed individuals, families, Orlando, and the community at large.
The conversation also included a mental health component, with mental health professionals recognizing the lasting effects of the community’s collective loss and discussing the ongoing journey toward healing.
Panelists will reflect on what has changed over the past decade while also looking toward hopes for the future. The discussion will center around cultural shifts, the political climate, allyship, advocacy, and the challenges still facing the LGBTQ+ community today.
Viewers were encouraged to participate in real time by asking questions, sharing comments, and engaging with the discussion throughout the evening.