MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – Education, faith and diversity leaders will host a candlelight vigil Thursday in response to the Orlando nightclub shooting that left 49 victims dead and dozens of others injured.
The Thursday night memorial has been planned by WVU groups including the LGBTQ+ Center, Commission for LGBTQ Equity, and Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
The gathering is scheduled for 8 p.m. at Woodburn Circle on the downtown campus.
“We must fight the numbing drumbeat of violence. We must not encourage or tolerate those who beat those drums, either with words or actions. We lift up the victims of Orlando, as well as the many who have come before them. We share in the grief with which their loved ones must live. And we stand in support with all who live in fear due to the hate that affects our world. May that support fuel compassion and acceptance as we move steadily forward,” WVU President E. Gordon Gee said.
David Fryson is a vice president for WVU and heads up the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion who echoed Gee’s comments. “We mourn together as a community united by justice. This attack on the LGBT community is an attack on all who believe in the freedom of America,” Fryson said.
Counselors will be available at Thursday’s vigil. Appointments can also be made by calling 304.293.4431, or visiting during Drop-In hours Monday – Friday, 8:15 am- 4:45 pm. Support is available around the clock.
Staff and faculty members who are also affected may contact the WVU Faculty and Staff Assistance Program at 304.293.5590.
Support resources and additional information is also available at the LGBTQ+ Center by calling 304.293.9593 or emailing [email protected].