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The Phoenix gay community has not stood still after a shooter killed 49 people at Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida.
About 750 people attended a vigil held Sunday night outside the Phoenix Pride LGBT Center, according to various news reports. Stacy’s at Melrose, a gay bar, hosted its own vigil on Sunday as well. BS West, a gay club in Scottsdale, will donate all the proceeds from its regular Tuesday night drag show to Equality Florida’s GoFundMe page for shooting victims.
The event, called “Stars Choice,” is in its 15th season. For the benefit, the stage will open to all performers. T-shirts, stickers, and more will be available for sale, with all proceeds going to benefit shooting victims.
BS West owner Mike Fornelli said in a Facebook post that it was crucial for the gay community to remain vigilant and visible in the face of an attack that took place in an openly queer space.
“Being with your community counts. It’s a time to come together and be with each other,” Fornelli said, adding that it is time for an “upbeat celebration of the lives lost and showing that we are not afraid.”
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