The violent attack against the LGBT community at a gay nightclub in Orlando, Fl. on June 12, 2016, was a terrible tragedy, fueled by hate and homophobia, that took away the lives of 49 innocent people and altered the future forever for the 53 innocent people who were injured. We must stand against crimes of hate, targeted toward any community, and commit ourselves to creating a world where all people can live without the fear that they will be targeted for their sexual orientation, gender, faith, or race.

While people may be inclined to spread the blame for this appalling attack to an entire community or faith, we urge you to not respond to hate with more hate.  Now, more than ever, during a time of increased violence and frequent mass shootings, we must come together to #TakeOnHateWithLove. Already, communities across the country are standing together in solidarity and responding constructively to the tragic shooting. The Florida chapter of the Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR Florida) set up a fundraising campaign on Muslim crowdfunding site LaunchGood to support the victims’ families. In less than 24 hours, it raised over $30,000.

Let’s stand together against hate and violence. Let’s honor the lives lost and altered forever and support the LGBT community through positive action.