In her show on the evening of April 9th in Miami, the legendary performer Madonna paid tribute to those affected by the tragic events of the 2016 shooting at Pulse nightclub.
The incident on June 12, 2016, at an Orlando venue hosting a Latin-themed night marked one of the deadliest assaults on the LGBTQ+ community. Gunman Omar Mateen claimed the lives of 49 individuals at Pulse nightclub. This occurrence had a profound impact on the queer Latine community, with 90 percent of the victims being of Latine descent. The victims included half Puerto Ricans, four Dominicans, and three Mexican nationals. Furthermore, 53 individuals sustained injuries during the tragic incident. Mateen’s life came to an end in a confrontation with law enforcement that same night.
Madonna has consistently shown her solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community throughout her career. As she concluded her Celebration Tour in Miami, she took a moment to pay tribute to those impacted by the Pulse nightclub tragedy, highlighting it as one of the deadliest mass shootings in U.S. history.
“It constitutes the most significant act of terrorism in the U.S. post-9/11,” Madonna conveyed. “People had gathered to celebrate in a club that promoted inclusivity and love. The ambiance was lively with individuals dancing to Latin beats, when a perpetrator entered armed with two firearms and unleashed chaos.” The 2017 Las Vegas music festival shooting holds the unfortunate distinction of being the most devastating recent mass shooting in the United States, claiming 60 lives and injuring over 850 people. Nevertheless, within the LGBTQ+ community, the Pulse nightclub tragedy remains the deadliest mass shooting to date.
During a poignant speech, Madonna revealed that survivors and relatives of Pulse nightclub victims were in attendance at her concert, as she emotionally mentioned the names of some of those present.
“I will always advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, as they have consistently stood by me,” she declared. “I craft music that stirs people, unites them in dance, and brings happiness without prejudice,” Madonna articulated. “This calamity should never have happened. Let us ensure it is not erased from memory.”
Earlier in the week, Madonna featured Ricky Martin as a special guest in her second Miami show. The tour will wrap up with a complimentary performance in Brazil on May 4.
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