1
100
31
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/0dcbe4a80aaae3ea84d9e29a5d9bccde.pdf
f86e4c0bf49ba7ada39c74ec692227cd
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Watermark Collection
Alternative Title
The Watermark Collection
Subject
Gay culture--United States
Description
Since 1994, <em>The Watermark</em> has been the cornerstone source of LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer/Questioning, and others) centered news for the Central Florida region. Founded by Tom Dyer in Orlando, the publication began generating bi-weekly issues beginning August 31, 1994. Since then, <em>The Watermark</em> has consistently published newspaper style issues every other Thursday. Gaining traction, the publication expanded in 1995 to include Tampa and, in 1997, <em>The Watermark</em> became a permanent piece of LGBTQ+ culture when the publication initiated the first large-scale Gay Days Weekend event, the Beach Ball at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. Before 1999, the publication printed 20,000 copies every week, distributing them to over 500 locations between its two major cities. Following 1999, the publication launched watermarkonline.com shifting to an online publication style. In 2016, Rick Claggett purchased <em>The Watermark</em>.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/" target="_blank">RICHES Program</a>
Type
Collection
Contributing Project
<a href="http://www.floridalgbtqmuseum.org/%20" target="_blank">GLBT History Museum of Central Florida</a>
<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/">The Watermark</a>
Curator
Smith, Robert
Cepero, Laura
O'Neal, Rhiannon
Hearn, Nikki
Greene, Quintella
Rodriguez, Sharon
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
Source Repository
<a href="http://www.floridalgbtqmuseum.org/%20" target="_blank">GLBT History Museum of Central Florida</a>
External Reference
"<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/aboutcontact/" target="_blank">About/Contact</a>." WatermarkOnline.com, accessed July 11, 2016. http://www.watermarkonline.com/aboutcontact/.
Document
A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
The Watermark, Vol. 12, No. 11, June 2-15, 2005
Alternative Title
Watermark, Vol. 12, No. 11
Subject
Gay culture--United States
Description
The eleventh issue of the twelfth volume of <em>The Watermark</em> was published on June 2, 2005 and covered a wide range of topics and stories of interest to the LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer/Questioning, and others) community. The headline story surrounded the ongoing investigtion of the deaths of two Tampa men, Jason Galehouse (1977-2003) and Michael Wachholtz (1977-2003). Steve Lorenzo and Scott Schweickert, who were arrested in 2005 for the murders, would not be convicted until over a decade later. Also included in this issue was the proposal of a new federal bill that included transgendered people as a protected class, the postponement of WorldPride, and the closing of a local Tampa business. In the <em>Water Colors</em> section, former Christian singers Jason and DeMarco gave an interview. This issue of <em>The Watermark</em> featured spotlights of many famous women who would be entertaining the masses at Gay Days Weekend 2005, the largest annual gathering of LGBTQ+ people in Orlando, as well as a schedule of events. Overall, this issue provided readers with answers, information, and entertainment.<br /><br />Since 1994, <em>The Watermark</em> has been the cornerstone source of LGBTQ+ centered news for the Central Florida region. Founded by Tom Dyer in Orlando, the publication began generating bi-weekly issues beginning August 31, 1994. Since then, <em>The Watermark</em> has consistently published newspaper-style issues every other Thursday. Gaining traction, the publication expanded in 1995 to include Tampa and, in 1997, <em>The Watermark</em> became a permanent piece of LGBTQ+ culture when the publication initiated the first large-scale Gay Days Weekend event, the Beach Ball at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. Before 1999, the publication printed 20,000 copies every week, distributing them to over 500 locations between its two major cities. Following 1999, the publication launched watermarkonline.com shifting to an online publication style. In 2016, Rick Claggett purchased <em>The Watermark</em>.
Type
Text
Source
Original 80-page newspaper: <a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/" target="_blank"><em>The Watermark</em></a>, Vol. 12, No. 11, June 2-15, 2005: Watermark Publishing Group, Orlando, Florida.
Requires
<a href="http://www.adobe.com/products/reader.html" target="_blank">Adobe Acrobat Reader</a>
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/204" target="_blank">The Watermark Collection</a>, LGBTQ+ Collection, RICHES.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original 80-page newspaper: <a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/" target="_blank"><em>The Watermark</em>, Vol. 12, No. 11, June 2-15, 2005.</a>
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Tampa, Florida
Sarasota, Florida
Tomes and Treasures, Tampa, Florida
Washington, D.C.
Jerusalem, Israel
Pulse, Orlando, Florida
Wyndham Palace Resort and Spa, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Sheraton World Resort, Orlando, Florida
Courtyard by Marriott Orlando, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Creator
Baber, Keith
Blanchard, Steve
Crescitelli, Jim
DeJesus, Edwin
Dyer, Tom
Ferber, Lawrence
Hartlage, Kirk
Jenkins, Georgia
Kundis, Ken
Leiner, Victor
Masters, Billy
Middour, Bryan L.
Murray-Parker, Karen S.
Nolan, Margaret
Paull, Anthony
Roehr, Bob
Triggs, Greg
Walen, Rick
Wiethop, Dave
Wiggins, Jayelle
Wilde, Diane
Publisher
<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/" target="_blank">Watermark Media</a>
Date Created
ca. 2005-06-02
Date Issued
2005-06-02
Date Copyrighted
2005-06-02
Format
application/pdf
Medium
80-page newspaper
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Provenance
Originally published by <a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/" target="_blank">Watermark Media</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by <a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/" target="_blank">Watermark Publishing Group</a> and is provided here by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Donation
Curator
O'Neil, Rhiannon
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
Source Repository
<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/" target="_blank">Watermark Media</a>.
External Reference
"<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/aboutcontact/" target="_blank">About/Contact</a>." WatermarkOnline.com, accessed January 28, 2018. http://www.watermarkonline.com/aboutcontact/.
Sullivan, Dan. "<a href="http://www.tampabay.com/news/courts/criminal/steve-lorenzo-appears-in-tampa-court-13-years-after-torture-murders/2338959" target="_blank">Steve Lorenzo appears in Tampa court, 13 years after torture murders</a>." TampaBay.com, accessed May 16, 2018. http://www.tampabay.com/news/courts/criminal/steve-lorenzo-appears-in-tampa-court-13-years-after-torture-murders/2338959.
A Different Grind
ACLU
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
advertising
AFA
AIDS
Alison Burgos
Allen L. Mack
American Civil Liberties Union
American Family Association
Amy Alonso
Ariel Sharon
Arlene Sweeting
Assemblies of God
Barney Frank
Barry Farmer
Bears of Central Florida
Ben Patrick Johnson
Betty Spence
Bill Kanouff
bisexual
BOCF
books
boycott
Brad Wilson
Brandon Lee
Brian Botoroff
Brian Winfield
bullying
business
Cari Gerchick
Chaka Khan
Charlotte Strayhorne
Chi Chi La Rue
child custody
Chris Alexander-Manley
Chris Jauch
Christian Right
comedy
Corey Clark
CVB
Dan Fiorini
Danielle Courtenay
David K. Johnson
DEA
DeMarco DeCiccio
Derek Edward Weston
Diana Richmond
Drug Enforcement Agency
Eddie Stone
Equality Florida
Eric Heins
family
Fiorini Gallery
Florida Men's Chorale
Florida Studio Theatre
FST
gay
Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation
Gay and Lesbian World Travel Expo
Gay Day Partners
Gay Days Weekend
gender roles
Girls in Wonderland
GLAAD
hate crimes
Headdress Ball
Heather Tepe
HIV
homosexuality
homosexuals
Hope and Help Center of Central Florida
HRC
human immunodeficiency virus
Human Rights Campaign
Ileana Ros-Lehtinen
International Drive
International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association
Jason and DeMarco
Jason Galehouse
Jason Hawke
Jason Warner
Jerusalem Open House
Jesse Valencia
Jill Zakrzewski
Joan Garry
Joe Salomese
Joel Paley
JOH
John Duran
John Gibson
Johnny Hazzard
Jonathan Rhys-Meyers
Karma
Kathy Griffin
Kenneth Cole
Kern High School District
Kristen Calihan
Larry Paciotti
Laura McElroy
Lavender Scare
Lech Kaczynski
lesbians
LGBT
LGBTQ+
Lil Barcaski
M. Christine Zink
Marcella Beckwith
Martina Vidmar
Marvin Laird
Matt Foreman
Michael Eisner
Michael Jeanes
Michael Sebastian
Michael Wachholtz
minocycline
murder
musical
Naked Orange Theatre Company
National Associaion for Female Executives
National Center for Lesbian Rights
National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force
NCLR
New College Student Alliance
NGLTF
Nicole Wee
Niko Maldonado
Noa Sattath
off-Broadway
One Mighty Party
Orlando Family Reunion Picnic
Orlando/Orange County Visitor and Convention Bureau
Pandora Events
Pat Benatar
Paul Lekakis
Paula Abdul
Pride in Paradise Home and Garden Tour
Pridefest
Pulse
queers
questioning
radio
Randy Shilts Award for Gay Non-Fiction
Richard Hopkins
Robin Brightbill
rohypnol
Ruthless! The Musical
same-sex
Sarasota Local Radio
Scott Schweickert
Shannon Minter
Shawn Hicks
Southern Baptist Convention
Southern Nights
Stephen Hope
Stephen Reigns
Steve Lorenzo
Steven Rios
Susan Wefald
Tammy Baldwin
The Black Eyed Peas
The Miss ASAP Pageant
The Watermark
Theo Blake
Todd Richardson
Tom Wildmon
Tomes and Treasures
Tony Awards
Tracy Young
trans
transgender
travel
Troy Apit
Troy Perry
UCC
UFMCC
Una Voce
United Church of Christ
United Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches
Walt Disney Company
Water Colors
Wayne Cooper
WorldPride
WSLR
Yesi Leon
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/94063bace06b5d3e3323a282bec9a831.pdf
1a6546473c59675b6bb0c04f9f08b494
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Watermark Collection
Alternative Title
The Watermark Collection
Subject
Gay culture--United States
Description
Since 1994, <em>The Watermark</em> has been the cornerstone source of LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer/Questioning, and others) centered news for the Central Florida region. Founded by Tom Dyer in Orlando, the publication began generating bi-weekly issues beginning August 31, 1994. Since then, <em>The Watermark</em> has consistently published newspaper style issues every other Thursday. Gaining traction, the publication expanded in 1995 to include Tampa and, in 1997, <em>The Watermark</em> became a permanent piece of LGBTQ+ culture when the publication initiated the first large-scale Gay Days Weekend event, the Beach Ball at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. Before 1999, the publication printed 20,000 copies every week, distributing them to over 500 locations between its two major cities. Following 1999, the publication launched watermarkonline.com shifting to an online publication style. In 2016, Rick Claggett purchased <em>The Watermark</em>.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/" target="_blank">RICHES Program</a>
Type
Collection
Contributing Project
<a href="http://www.floridalgbtqmuseum.org/%20" target="_blank">GLBT History Museum of Central Florida</a>
<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/">The Watermark</a>
Curator
Smith, Robert
Cepero, Laura
O'Neal, Rhiannon
Hearn, Nikki
Greene, Quintella
Rodriguez, Sharon
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
Source Repository
<a href="http://www.floridalgbtqmuseum.org/%20" target="_blank">GLBT History Museum of Central Florida</a>
External Reference
"<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/aboutcontact/" target="_blank">About/Contact</a>." WatermarkOnline.com, accessed July 11, 2016. http://www.watermarkonline.com/aboutcontact/.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
The Watermark, Vol. 9, No. 21, October 10-23, 2002
Alternative Title
Watermark, Vol. 9, No. 21
Subject
Gay culture--United States
Description
The twenty-first issue of the ninth volume of <em>The Watermark</em> was published on October 10, 2002 and continued to provide coverage of politicians running for state government positions, as the mid-term elections would be held in November. In this issue, the Florida Attorney General race between Charlie Crist (R) (b. 1956) and Buddy Dyer (D) (b. 1958) is examined. The issue also highlights fall events occurring within the LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer/Questioning, and others) community, including the Tampa International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival and "Bear Bust." Additionally, this issue covered an LGBTQ+ organization at a Sarasota college, Equality Florida's 2nd Annual Central Florida Reception, Pridefest, and less encouraging incidences of queerphobia. Director of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Community Center (aka The Center), Lana Brito, was interviewed, as was an openly gay "Big Brother" of the Big Brother Big Sisters of America chapter in Tampa. A clothing line called Butchwear, pioneered by Alex Brendell, was featured in the Water Colors pullout section.<br /><br />Since 1994, <em>The Watermark</em> has been the cornerstone source of LGBTQ+ centered news for the Central Florida region. Founded by Tom Dyer in Orlando, the publication began generating bi-weekly issues beginning August 31, 1994. Since then, <em>The Watermark</em> has consistently published newspaper-style issues every other Thursday. Gaining traction, the publication expanded in 1995 to include Tampa and, in 1997, <em>The Watermark</em> became a permanent piece of LGBTQ+ culture when the publication initiated the first large-scale Gay Days Weekend event, the Beach Ball at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. Before 1999, the publication printed 20,000 copies every week, distributing them to over 500 locations between its two major cities. Following 1999, the publication launched watermarkonline.com shifting to an online publication style. In 2016, Rick Claggett purchased <em>The Watermark</em>.
Type
Text
Source
Original 68-page newspaper: <a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/" target="_blank"><em>The Watermark</em></a>, Vol. 9, No. 21, October 10-23, 2002: Publications Collection, <a href="http://glbthistorymuseum.com/joomla25/index.php?lang=en" target="_blank">GLBT History Museum of Central Florida</a>, Orlando, Florida.
Requires
<a href="http://www.adobe.com/products/reader.html" target="_blank">Adobe Acrobat Reader</a>
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/203" target="_blank">The Watermark Collection</a>, RICHES.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original 68-page newspaper: <a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/" target="_blank"><em>The Watermark</em></a>, Vol. 9, No. 21, October 10-23, 2002.
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Sarasota, Florida
Tampa, Florida
Manatee Community College, Bradenton, Florida
The Lyceuym, St. Petersburg, Florida
Full Moon Saloon, Orlando, Florida
West Hollywood, California
Daytona Beach, Florida
Tampa Bay Business Guild, Tampa, Florida
Creator
Blake, Michael
Campbell, Scottie
Chisman, Erin J.
Craige, Shelley
Crescitelli, Jim
Donahoo, Logan
Dyer, Tom
Guarino, David R.
Guay, Rena
Hartlage, Kirk
Jackowitz, Enid
Jackowitz, Syd
Kundis, Ken
Martinac, Paula
Masters, Billy
Rojas, Arturo
Shapiro, Gregg
Sullivan, John
Smith, Scott Jackson
Triggs, Greg
Varnell, Paul
Viren, Sarah
Walen, Rick
Westveer, Drew
Wiggins, Jayelle
Wilde, Diane
Publisher
<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/" target="_blank">Watermark Media</a>
Date Created
ca. 2002-10-10
Date Issued
2002-10-10
Date Copyrighted
2002-10-10
Format
application/pdf
Medium
68-page newspaper
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Provenance
Originally published by <a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/" target="_blank">Watermark Media</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by <a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/" target="_blank">Watermark Publishing Group</a> and is provided here by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Donation
Contributing Project
<a href="http://glbthistorymuseum.com/joomla25/index.php?lang=en" target="_blank">GLBT History Museum of Central Florida</a>
Curator
O'Neil, Rhiannon
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
Source Repository
<a href="http://glbthistorymuseum.com/joomla25/index.php?lang=en" target="_blank">GLBT History Museum of Central Florida</a>
External Reference
"<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/aboutcontact/" target="_blank">About/Contact</a>." WatermarkOnline.com, accessed January 28, 2018. http://www.watermarkonline.com/aboutcontact/.
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
Adam Mackiewicz
Advantage Tampa Tennis
AIDS
Alan Bounville
Alex Brendell
Alex Sink
Alison Moyet
Alyson Adventures
Amazon
Amy Mandel
Andrea Meade
Andy Warhol
Bart Zarcone
Bates Reed
BBBSA
Bear Bust
Bears of Central Florida
Big Brothers Big Sisters of America
Bill Dean
Bill McBride
bisexual
Bob Graves
Butchwear
Centaur Entertainment
Central Florida Reception
Charles "Charlie" Joseph Crist Jr
Chris Ford-Hayes
Christy Burch
Cindy Brown
Cristina Beato
Dade Human Rights Foundation
Daniel Phillip Redding
Danielle Redding
Danny Williams
Dave Simanoff
David Cicilline
Democrat
Department of Health and Human Services
DHRF
Dianne Wilde
Dignity of Sarasota
Dirk Shafer
Eddie Diaz
Equality Florida
Full Moon Saloon
Gary Paskal
gay
Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund
gay bashing
Gay Men's Health Crisis
Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual Community Center
Gays and Lesbians Advocating Diversity
George DuFour
Geralyn Graham
GLAD
GLBCC
Glenda Evans Hood
Hanns Esteban Travel, Inc.
Harry Jacobs
hate crimes
HHS
Hillary Rodham Clinton
HIV
homophobia
homosexuality
homosexuals
Hopefest
HRC
human immunodeficiency virus
Human Rights Campaign
Human Rights Campaign Foundation
Human Rights Watch
IGLHRC
IGLSS
Institute for Gay and Lesbian Strategic Studies
International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission
Isaac Mizrah
Janeanne Garofalo
Jason Lee Starkey
Jeb Bush
Jeremy Shockey
Jim Davis
Jim Martin
John Brockman
John Dowless
John Fuss
John Hugh "Buddy" Dyer
John Joseph Travolta
John Leguizamo
John Sullivan
Joie Cadle
Jose Fernandez
Joseph Paolino Jr.
Judy Jackson
Juliette L. Lewis
Karen Doering
Karen Ferrell
Kathleen DeBold
Kevin Metzing
Kristen Moudy
Kristin Davis
Lana Brito
Latino/a Lesbian & Gay Organization
lesbians
LGBT
LGBTQ+
LLEGO
Lynda Castro
Manatee Community College
Margaret Muray
Mark Haggett
Marni Berger
Miami Gay and Lesbian Film Festival
Michael Blake
Michael Morris
Michael Slaymaker
Michael Stevenson
Nadine Smith
Natalie Portman
National Coming Out Day
Nickie Masburn
OADO
Office of Women's Health
OFRW
Olivia Newton-John
Orlando Anti-Discrimination Ordinance
Orlando Front Runners and Walkers
Pamela Graham
Paramount Home Entertainment
Pat Frank
Patrick Howell
Patty Sheehan
Philip Sheldon
Pridefest
queers
questioning
Republicans
Rich Farrell
Ringling School of Art and Design
Riyla Wilson
Robert Mapplethorpe
Robert Rosenberg
Robin Hankins
Ron O'Connor
Ronald Harry Robbins
Roy Hill
Safe School Summit
Sam Wagstaff
same-sex
Sarasota Film Festival
Sasha Alyson
Scott Barry
Scott Jackson Smith
Scott McGillivray
Scottie Campbell
Selma Blair
Sheri McInvale
Steve Facella
Steve Lorenzo
SunTrust
Tampa Bay Business Guild
Tampa International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival
Ted Howard
Thang Nguyen
The Center
The Watermark
TIGLFF
Tim Mobley
Tim Shea
trans
transgender
transphobia
Treve Broudy
Unity Leadership Tampa Bay
Vince Clarke
Water Colors
Yaz
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/f198463dc8efb192115a34fff367e128.pdf
84cee2690c3b6d3cc5030c1603fa4dd1
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Watermark Collection
Alternative Title
The Watermark Collection
Subject
Gay culture--United States
Description
Since 1994, <em>The Watermark</em> has been the cornerstone source of LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer/Questioning, and others) centered news for the Central Florida region. Founded by Tom Dyer in Orlando, the publication began generating bi-weekly issues beginning August 31, 1994. Since then, <em>The Watermark</em> has consistently published newspaper style issues every other Thursday. Gaining traction, the publication expanded in 1995 to include Tampa and, in 1997, <em>The Watermark</em> became a permanent piece of LGBTQ+ culture when the publication initiated the first large-scale Gay Days Weekend event, the Beach Ball at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. Before 1999, the publication printed 20,000 copies every week, distributing them to over 500 locations between its two major cities. Following 1999, the publication launched watermarkonline.com shifting to an online publication style. In 2016, Rick Claggett purchased <em>The Watermark</em>.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/" target="_blank">RICHES Program</a>
Type
Collection
Contributing Project
<a href="http://www.floridalgbtqmuseum.org/%20" target="_blank">GLBT History Museum of Central Florida</a>
<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/">The Watermark</a>
Curator
Smith, Robert
Cepero, Laura
O'Neal, Rhiannon
Hearn, Nikki
Greene, Quintella
Rodriguez, Sharon
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
Source Repository
<a href="http://www.floridalgbtqmuseum.org/%20" target="_blank">GLBT History Museum of Central Florida</a>
External Reference
"<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/aboutcontact/" target="_blank">About/Contact</a>." WatermarkOnline.com, accessed July 11, 2016. http://www.watermarkonline.com/aboutcontact/.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
The Watermark, Vol. 9, No. 19, September 12-25, 2002
Alternative Title
Watermark, Vol. 9, No. 19
Subject
Gay culture--United States
Description
The nineteenth issue of the ninth volume of <em>The Watermark</em> was published on September 12, 2002, primarily highlighting the effect Florida politicians might have on the Central Florida LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer/Questioning, and others) community if elected. Among these politicians was Patrick Howell (b. 1970), who, if elected, would have been the first openly gay Republican to sit in the Florida State House of Representatives. Other politicians include Tom Feeney (R) (b. 1958), Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives in 2002, and Harry Jacobs (D) (b. 1958), a newcomer to the political scene but ardently supportive of equal rights and higher wages for teachers. The two would be up for the U.S. House District 24 election that year. In addition to state and federal politics, the issue continues coverage of the debate surrounding the addition of protection from discrimination of sexual orientation in the workplace to Orlando's city legislation. Other topics covered include interviews with comedians touring Florida, a spotlight on an LGBTQ+ youth group, and an interview in the Water Colors pullout section with DC Comics writer Judd Winick, who discusses hate crimes and gay bashing in a recent issue of the <em>Green Lantern</em>.<br /><br />Since 1994, <em>The Watermark</em> has been the cornerstone source of LGBTQ+ centered news for the Central Florida region. Founded by Tom Dyer in Orlando, the publication began generating bi-weekly issues beginning August 31, 1994. Since then, <em>The Watermark</em> has consistently published newspaper-style issues every other Thursday. Gaining traction, the publication expanded in 1995 to include Tampa and, in 1997, <em>The Watermark</em> became a permanent piece of LGBTQ+ culture when the publication initiated the first large-scale Gay Days Weekend event, the Beach Ball at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. Before 1999, the publication printed 20,000 copies every week, distributing them to over 500 locations between its two major cities. Following 1999, the publication launched watermarkonline.com shifting to an online publication style. In 2016, Rick Claggett purchased <em>The Watermark</em>.
Type
Text
Source
Original 60-page newspaper: <a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/" target="_blank">The Watermark</a>, Vol. 9, No. 19, September 12-25, 2002: Publications Collection, <a href="http://glbthistorymuseum.com/joomla25/index.php?lang=en" target="_blank">GLBT History Museum of Central Florida</a>, Orlando, Florida.
Requires
<a href="http://www.adobe.com/products/reader.html" target="_blank">Adobe Acrobat Reader</a>
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/203" target="_blank">The Watermark Collection</a>, RICHES.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original 60-page newspaper, <a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/" target="_blank">The Watermark</a>, Vol. 9, No. 19, September 12-25, 2002.
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Tampa, Florida
Sarasota, Florida
Good Samaritan Church, Pinellas Park, Florida
Bradenton, Florida
Miami, Florida
Altamonte Springs, Florida
Atlanta, Georgia
New Orleans, Louisiana
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Creator
Blake, Michael
Campbell, Scottie
Chisman, Erin J.
Craige, Shelley
Crescitelli, Jim
Donahoo, Logan
Dyer, Tom
Guarino, David R.
Guay, Rena
Hartlage, Kirk
Jackowitz, Enid
Jackowitz, Syd
Kundis, Ken
Martinac, Paula
Masters, Billy
Rojas, Arturo
Sullivan, John
Triggs, Greg
Varnell, Paul
Viren, Sarah
Walen, Rick
Westveer, Drew
Wiggins, Jayelle
Wilde, Diane
Publisher
<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/" target="_blank">Watermark Media</a>
Date Created
ca. 2002-09-12
Date Issued
2002-09-12
Date Copyrighted
2002-09-12
Format
application/pdf
Medium
60-page newspaper
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Provenance
Originally published by <a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/" target="_blank">Watermark Media</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by <a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/" target="_blank">Watermark Publishing Group</a> and is provided here by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Donation
Contributing Project
<a href="http://glbthistorymuseum.com/joomla25/index.php?lang=en" target="_blank">GLBT History Museum of Central Florida</a>
Curator
O'Neil, Rhiannon
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
Source Repository
<a href="http://glbthistorymuseum.com/joomla25/index.php?lang=en" target="_blank">GLBT History Museum of Central Florida</a>
External Reference
"<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/aboutcontact/" target="_blank">About/Contact</a>." WatermarkOnline.com, accessed January 28, 2018. http://www.watermarkonline.com/aboutcontact/.
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
AIDS
Al Tompkins
Alan Darcy
Alex King
Ali Kirk
Andre Perron
Andy Eddy
Anita Jane Bryant
Annette Jones
Barbara J. Hall
Bart Zarcone
Bates Reed
Betty Wynum
Bill Barnes
bisexual
Black Gay Pride Celebration
Bob Schreck
Boston University Academy
Brad Wages
breast cancer
Brigit Books
Canada to U.S. AIDS Vaccine Ride
Carol J. Bartsch
Central Florida Softball League
CFSL
Chris Vasquez
comics
Crescendo
Cyndi Butz
D.J. Holt
Dame Edna Everage
Daniel Gross
Daniel Luporte
Dave Dasilva
David Dillon
Dawn Avalle
DC Comics
Deb Winsor
Debbie Roginski
Democratic Party
Democrats
Derek King
Don Bissonette
Doug Head
Eileen Mary Challans
Faye Dunaway
FFA
Florida Family Association
Fred Davis
gay
Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation
gay bashing
Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual Community Center
George Box
GLAAD
GLBCC
Glenda "Glenn" Veronica Close
Glenda Evans Hood
Green Lantern
HAART
Harry Jacobs
hate crimes
Helen Roman
Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy
HIV
Holy Homophobia
homosexuality
homosexuals
Howard Brush Dean III
human immunodeficiency virus
Human Relations Board
James Tracy
Jeff Rousch
Jim Avalle
Jim Merritt
Jim Rafferty
Jim Reese
Jimmie Scott
Joe Callion
John D. Rawls
John Phillip Mullinax
John Russo
John Silber
John Street
Joseph Sayer
Judd Winick
Judy Gold
Julie Mullard
Kate Clark
Kathy Richter
Kelly McBride
Kevin Beary
Kim Shephard
Lani Brito
Larry McKinney
Lazar Kleit
Leather Sir and Leather Boy
Lesbian Breast Cancer Outreach Project
lesbians
Lew Oliver
LGBT
LGBTQ+
Liberty Belles
Lissa Curtis-Weakley
Live Journal
Logan Brown
Louisiana Electorate of Gays and Lesbians Inc.
Marion Vaughan
Mark Ferrara
Marty Premo
Marvel Comics
Mary Renault
Mike Rogers
Mike Zuhl
Montreal to Maine AIDS Vaccine Bike Trek
Nancy Wilson
National Women's Football League
Nelson A. Diaz
OADO
orlando
Orlando Anti-Discrimination Ordinance
Out & Equal
Out & Equal Workplace Summit
Pallotta TeamWorks
Pat Williams
Patricia Ireland
Patrick Howell
Patty Sheehan
Pedro Zamora
Peter Spriggs
Phil Diamond
Poynter Institute
Project YES
queers
questioning
Race for the Cure
Randy Miller
Republican Party
Republicans
Richard Fasenmeyer
Richard Waugh
Ricky Chavis
Robert A. "Bob" Butterworth
Rod Thomson
Ron Marz
Rufus McGarrigle Wainwright
same-sex
Sarah & Carly Band
Sarasota
Sarasota AIDS Theatre Project
Sarasota Herald Tribune
Selisse Berry
Shelly Zachritz
Sheri McInvale
St. Luke's United Methodist Church
Stan Madray
Steven Allen
Steven Goldstein
Sugarlid
superheroes
Susan G. Komen
Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation
Tampa
Tampa Bay Arts, Inc.
Tampa Bay Men's Gay Chorus
Tampa Bay Women's Chorus
Taylor Hoffman
Teri Bonfield
Terry King
The Men of Crescendo
The Rub
The Watermark
Tiffany Palmer, Esq.
Tom Feeney
trans
transgender
True Expressions
Tyrese Howard
Vicki Vargo
Water Colors
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/ddb261919f1a57c313882c1af5fb2a02.pdf
019d7ccaffb5c870dd40258f52ce4550
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Watermark Collection
Alternative Title
The Watermark Collection
Subject
Gay culture--United States
Description
Since 1994, <em>The Watermark</em> has been the cornerstone source of LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer/Questioning, and others) centered news for the Central Florida region. Founded by Tom Dyer in Orlando, the publication began generating bi-weekly issues beginning August 31, 1994. Since then, <em>The Watermark</em> has consistently published newspaper style issues every other Thursday. Gaining traction, the publication expanded in 1995 to include Tampa and, in 1997, <em>The Watermark</em> became a permanent piece of LGBTQ+ culture when the publication initiated the first large-scale Gay Days Weekend event, the Beach Ball at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. Before 1999, the publication printed 20,000 copies every week, distributing them to over 500 locations between its two major cities. Following 1999, the publication launched watermarkonline.com shifting to an online publication style. In 2016, Rick Claggett purchased <em>The Watermark</em>.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/" target="_blank">RICHES Program</a>
Type
Collection
Contributing Project
<a href="http://www.floridalgbtqmuseum.org/%20" target="_blank">GLBT History Museum of Central Florida</a>
<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/">The Watermark</a>
Curator
Smith, Robert
Cepero, Laura
O'Neal, Rhiannon
Hearn, Nikki
Greene, Quintella
Rodriguez, Sharon
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
Source Repository
<a href="http://www.floridalgbtqmuseum.org/%20" target="_blank">GLBT History Museum of Central Florida</a>
External Reference
"<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/aboutcontact/" target="_blank">About/Contact</a>." WatermarkOnline.com, accessed July 11, 2016. http://www.watermarkonline.com/aboutcontact/.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
The Watermark, Vol. 12, No. 17, August 25-September 7, 2005
Alternative Title
Watermark, Vol. 12, No. 17
Subject
Gay culture--United States
Description
The seventeenth issue in the twelfth volum of <em>The Watermark</em> was published on August 25, 2005 Since 1994, <em>The Watermark</em> has been the cornerstone source of LGBTQ+ centered news for the Central Florida region. Founded by Tom Dyer in Orlando, the publication began generating bi-weekly issues beginning August 31, 1994. Since then, <em>The Watermark</em> has consistently published newspaper-style issues every other Thursday. Gaining traction, the publication expanded in 1995 to include Tampa and, in 1997, <em>The Watermark</em> became a permanent piece of LGBTQ+ culture when the publication initiated the first large-scale Gay Days Weekend event, the Beach Ball at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. Before 1999, the publication printed 20,000 copies every week, distributing them to over 500 locations between its two major cities. Following 1999, the publication launched watermarkonline.com shifting to an online publication style. In 2016, Rick Claggett purchased <em>The Watermark</em>.
Type
Text
Source
Original 80-page newspaper: <a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/" target="_blank"><em>The Watermark</em></a>, Vol. 12, No. 17, August 25-September 7, 2005: Watermark Publishing Group, Orlando, Florida.
Requires
<a href="http://www.adobe.com/products/reader.html" target="_blank">Adobe Acrobat Reader</a>
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.https//richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/203" target="_blank">The Watermark Collection</a>, LGBTQ+ Collection, RICHES.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original 80-page newspaper: <a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/" target="_blank"><em>The Watermark, <br /></em></a>
, Vol. 12, No. 17, August 25-September 7, 2005.
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Tampa, Florida
Daytona Beach, Florida
Sarasota, Florida
St. Petersburg, Florida
Key West, Florida
Kansas City, Kansas
Conway, Arkansas
Lansing, Michigan
Stockholm, Sweden
Washington, D.C.
London, England
Santa Ana, California
Wichita, Kansas
Tallahassee, Florida
Lakeland, Florida
Creator
Dyer, Tom
Wiethop, Dave
Hartlage, Kirk
Blanchard, Steve
Siyufy, Adele
Buck, Lisa
Baber, Keith
Crescitelli, Jim
DeJesus, Edwin
Jenkins, Georgia
Leiner, Victor
Kundis, Ken
Masters, Billy
Middour, Bryan L.
Murray-Parker, Karen S.
Nolan, Margaret
Paull, Anthony
Roehr, Bob
Triggs, Greg
Wiggins, Jayelle
Wilde, Diane
Bechdel, Alison
Maniscalco, Rex
Moore, Travis
Eckert, Tom
Nutt, Brian
Publisher
<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/" target="_blank">Watermark Media</a>
Date Created
ca. 2005-08-25
Date Issued
2005-08-25
Date Copyrighted
2005-08-25
Format
application/pdf
Medium
80-page newspaper
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Provenance
Originally published by <a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/" target="_blank">Watermark Media</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by <a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/" target="_blank">Watermark Publishing Group</a> and is provided here by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Donation
Curator
Hearn, Nikki
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
Source Repository
<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/" target="_blank">Watermark Media</a>
External Reference
"<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/aboutcontact/" target="_blank">About/Contact</a>." WatermarkOnline.com, accessed January 26, 2018. http://www.watermarkonline.com/aboutcontact/.
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
Adele Siyufy
Aimee Mann
Alison Bechdel
Anthony Paull
anti-gay policy
Beth Adele Long
Billy Masters
bisexual
Bob Roehr
Brian Nutt
Bryan L. Middour
bullying
Buycott
Dave Wiethop
Daytona Beach
Debbie Oliver
Diane Wilde
domestic partnerships
Don Williams
Dragness of God and the Naked Holy Ghost
Edwin DeJesus
Evangelical Lutheran Church of American
Fall Arts Preview
gay
Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Descrimination
Gay Days Tampa
Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender
gay marriage
gay panic
gay-bashing
Georgia Jenkins
Greg Triggs
hate crimes
homosexuality
homosexuals
human immunodeficiency virus
Jayelle Wiggins
Jen Foster
Jim Crescitelli
Jim Verraros
Jimmie Rice
John Granstrand
John Walldorf
Jonathan Sexauer
Karen S. Murray-Parker
Ken Kundis
Kevin Thornton
Kieth Barber
King of Peace MCC
Kirk Hartlage
Larry Hermann
Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender
lesbians
LGBTQ+
Lisa Buck
Lorraine Brock
Maitland Art Center
Margaret Nolan
Mark Dickerson
Michigan Women's Music Festival
Misty Smeltzer
Nancy Wilson
Neil G. Giuliano
orlando
Pride
Q Television
queers
questioning
Rex Maniscalco
Rick Claggett
Rivendell Media, Inc.
same-sex
Sarasota
Sarasota Gay and Lesbian Film Festival
sexual harassment
Spacecoast
St. Petersburg
Steve Allen
Steve Blanchard
Steve Davis
Suncoast Theatre
Tampa
The Ladies of Eola Heights
The Watermark
Tom Dyer
Tom Eckert
Tom Murray
trans
transgender
Travis Moore
Trina Gregory
Victor Leiner
Virgil
Wanzie and Company
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/80b51adb23a327b5501c0ecec8f1fd1d.jpg
27ba3e42a28b3603a05adc891ac37bab
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse Collection
Alternative Title
Pulse Collection
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Schneider, Sarah
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES</a>
Language
eng
Type
Collection
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a>
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Still Image
A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Memorial Signs Outside Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Alternative Title
Pulse Memorial Signs
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
Original photograph of handmade signs placed along a sidewalk outside the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts to commemorate the victims of the Pulse Nightclub shooting. The signs contain various words of support, love and empathy. was held at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts at 445 South Magnolia Avenue in Orlando, Florida, on June 13, 2016. Pulse was located at 1912 South Orange Avenue in Orlando, Florida. In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Type
Still Image
Source
Original color photograph: <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/205" target="_blank">Pulse Collection</a>, RICHES of Central Florida.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original color photograph.
Coverage
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Schneider, Sarah
Publisher
<a href="%E2%80%9Dhttp%3A//riches.cah.ucf.edu/%E2%80%9D">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-06-13
Format
image/jpg
Extent
258 KB
Medium
1 color photograph
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Sarah Schneider and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by RICHES of Central Florida <a href="%E2%80%9Dhttp%3A//riches.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES of Central Florida</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Stoddard, James
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Neale, Rick. ""Orlando vigil attracts thousands to Dr. Phillips Center." <em>Florida Today</em>, June 13, 2016. Accessed April 13, 2017.
Sallah, Michael. "<a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html" target="_blank">What happened between 2 and 5 a.m.? The Orlando massacre, minute by minute</a>." <em>Miami Herald</em>, June 15, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html.
Alvarez, Lizaette and Richard Perez-Pena. "<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0" target="_blank">Orlando Gunman Attacks Gay Nightclub, Leaving 50 Dead</a>." <em>New York Times</em>, June 12, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Sayer, Harry. "<a href="http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#" target="_blank">UPDATED: Every Orlando area vigil and memorial happening this week</a>." <em>Orlando Weekly</em>, June 17, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#.
Bevil, Dewayne and Desiree Stennett. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html" target="_blank">Crowd estimated at 50,000 packs into Lake Eola Park for Pulse vigil</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, June 19, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html.
Weiner, Jeff. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando to buy Pulse nightclub, turn it into memorial</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, November 8, 2016. Accessed November 9, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html.
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
GLBT
gun violence
hate crimes
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
mass shootings
memorial
memorial items
orlando
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
signs
terrorist attacks
tribute items
vigil
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/07c1ae7661f8f96909f7ce2be443f9cb.jpg
6e9d0350dc90f1bc616a263f2f3404ed
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse Collection
Alternative Title
Pulse Collection
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Schneider, Sarah
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES</a>
Language
eng
Type
Collection
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a>
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Still Image
A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Memorial Items Outside Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Alternative Title
Pulse Memorial Items
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
Original photograph of memorial items at a vigil that was held for the victims of the Pulse Nightclub shooting. The event was held at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts at 445 South Magnolia Avenue in Orlando, Florida, on June 13, 2016. The vigil site contains flowers, signs, flags, candles, keepsakes, stuffed animals, drawings, paintings, and arts and crafts. Pulse was located at 1912 South Orange Avenue in Orlando, Florida. In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Type
Still Image
Source
Original color photograph: <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/205" target="_blank">Pulse Collection</a>, RICHES of Central Florida.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original color photograph.
Coverage
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Schneider, Sarah
Publisher
<a href="%E2%80%9Dhttp%3A//riches.cah.ucf.edu/%E2%80%9D">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-06-13
Format
image/jpg
Extent
388 KB
Medium
1 color photograph
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Sarah Schneider and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by RICHES of Central Florida <a href="%E2%80%9Dhttp%3A//riches.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES of Central Florida</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Stoddard, James
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Neale, Rick. ""Orlando vigil attracts thousands to Dr. Phillips Center." <em>Florida Today</em>, June 13, 2016. Accessed April 13, 2017.
Sallah, Michael. "<a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html" target="_blank">What happened between 2 and 5 a.m.? The Orlando massacre, minute by minute</a>." <em>Miami Herald</em>, June 15, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html.
Alvarez, Lizaette and Richard Perez-Pena. "<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0" target="_blank">Orlando Gunman Attacks Gay Nightclub, Leaving 50 Dead</a>." <em>New York Times</em>, June 12, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Sayer, Harry. "<a href="http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#" target="_blank">UPDATED: Every Orlando area vigil and memorial happening this week</a>." <em>Orlando Weekly</em>, June 17, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#.
Bevil, Dewayne and Desiree Stennett. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html" target="_blank">Crowd estimated at 50,000 packs into Lake Eola Park for Pulse vigil</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, June 19, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html.
Weiner, Jeff. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando to buy Pulse nightclub, turn it into memorial</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, November 8, 2016. Accessed November 9, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html.
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
GLBT
gun violence
hate crimes
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
mass shootings
memorial
memorial items
orlando
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
terrorist attacks
tribute items
vigil
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/edb140cc73883b56c5d186a9bd601289.jpg
8c5579e9fa55834f845ff664bebc5750
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse Collection
Alternative Title
Pulse Collection
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Schneider, Sarah
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES</a>
Language
eng
Type
Collection
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a>
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Still Image
A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
If We Stand Together Hope Will Find A Way
Alternative Title
Handmade Rainbow Colored Sign
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
Original photograph of a handmade sign placed at a vigil that was held for the victims of the Pulse Nightclub shooting. The sign is reads, "If We Stand Together Hope Will Find A Way." The words are painted in black and the background is the colors of the rainbow. The vigil was held at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts at 445 South Magnolia Avenue in Orlando, Florida, on June 13, 2016. Pulse was located at 1912 South Orange Avenue in Orlando, Florida. In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Type
Still Image
Source
Original color photograph: <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/205" target="_blank">Pulse Collection</a>, RICHES of Central Florida.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original color photograph.
Coverage
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Schneider, Sarah
Publisher
<a href="%E2%80%9Dhttp%3A//riches.cah.ucf.edu/%E2%80%9D">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-06-13
Format
image/jpg
Extent
235 KB
Medium
1 color photograph
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Sarah Schneider and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by RICHES of Central Florida <a href="%E2%80%9Dhttp%3A//riches.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES of Central Florida</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Stoddard, James
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Neale, Rick. ""Orlando vigil attracts thousands to Dr. Phillips Center." <em>Florida Today</em>, June 13, 2016. Accessed April 13, 2017.
Sallah, Michael. "<a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html" target="_blank">What happened between 2 and 5 a.m.? The Orlando massacre, minute by minute</a>." <em>Miami Herald</em>, June 15, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html.
Alvarez, Lizaette and Richard Perez-Pena. "<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0" target="_blank">Orlando Gunman Attacks Gay Nightclub, Leaving 50 Dead</a>." <em>New York Times</em>, June 12, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Sayer, Harry. "<a href="http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#" target="_blank">UPDATED: Every Orlando area vigil and memorial happening this week</a>." <em>Orlando Weekly</em>, June 17, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#.
Bevil, Dewayne and Desiree Stennett. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html" target="_blank">Crowd estimated at 50,000 packs into Lake Eola Park for Pulse vigil</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, June 19, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html.
Weiner, Jeff. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando to buy Pulse nightclub, turn it into memorial</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, November 8, 2016. Accessed November 9, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html.
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
art
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
GLBT
gun violence
hate crimes
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
mass shootings
memorial
orlando
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
painting
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
rainbow
rainbow flag
sign
terrorist attacks
vigil
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/013ceb731d5f02bec77f8969af5cda37.jpg
3566ad0051b44baecf0d1175cb0f11ba
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse Collection
Alternative Title
Pulse Collection
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Schneider, Sarah
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES</a>
Language
eng
Type
Collection
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a>
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Still Image
A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Crowd at Vigil for Pulse
Alternative Title
Crowd at Vigil for Pulse Outside of Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
Original photograph of a large crowd that gathered for a vigil that was held for the victims of the Pulse Nightclub shooting. The event was held at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts at 445 South Magnolia Avenue in Orlando, Florida, on June 13, 2016. Pulse was located at 1912 South Orange Avenue in Orlando, Florida. In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Type
Still Image
Source
Original color photograph: <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/205" target="_blank">Pulse Collection</a>, RICHES of Central Florida.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original color photograph.
Coverage
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Schneider, Sarah
Publisher
<a href="%E2%80%9Dhttp%3A//riches.cah.ucf.edu/%E2%80%9D">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-06-13
Format
image/jpg
Extent
329 KB
Medium
1 color photograph
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Sarah Schneider and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by RICHES of Central Florida <a href="%E2%80%9Dhttp%3A//riches.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES of Central Florida</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Stoddard, James
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Neale, Rick. ""Orlando vigil attracts thousands to Dr. Phillips Center." <em>Florida Today</em>, June 13, 2016. Accessed April 13, 2017.
Sallah, Michael. "<a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html" target="_blank">What happened between 2 and 5 a.m.? The Orlando massacre, minute by minute</a>." <em>Miami Herald</em>, June 15, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html.
Alvarez, Lizaette and Richard Perez-Pena. "<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0" target="_blank">Orlando Gunman Attacks Gay Nightclub, Leaving 50 Dead</a>." <em>New York Times</em>, June 12, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Sayer, Harry. "<a href="http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#" target="_blank">UPDATED: Every Orlando area vigil and memorial happening this week</a>." <em>Orlando Weekly</em>, June 17, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#.
Bevil, Dewayne and Desiree Stennett. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html" target="_blank">Crowd estimated at 50,000 packs into Lake Eola Park for Pulse vigil</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, June 19, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html.
Weiner, Jeff. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando to buy Pulse nightclub, turn it into memorial</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, November 8, 2016. Accessed November 9, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html.
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
crowd
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
GLBT
gun violence
hate crimes
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
mass shootings
memorial
orlando
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
terrorist attacks
vigil
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/5e1490eb2d24d96b7564cd0d495cf0a7.jpg
722681d7135075e6ed3eed7f17ebc49f
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse Collection
Alternative Title
Pulse Collection
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Schneider, Sarah
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES</a>
Language
eng
Type
Collection
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a>
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Still Image
A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Orlando United Banner at Orlando City Hall
Alternative Title
Orlando United Banner
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
Original photograph of a banner displayed in the front of Orlando's City Hall building. The banner contains a photograph of the city skyline, Lake Eola and the hashtag phrase "#OrlandoUnited." The photo was taken during a vigil that was held for the victims of the Pulse Nightclub shooting. The event was held at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts at 445 South Magnolia Avenue in Orlando, Florida, on June 13, 2016. Pulse was located at 1912 South Orange Avenue in Orlando, Florida. In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Type
Still Image
Source
Original color photograph: <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/205" target="_blank">Pulse Collection</a>, RICHES of Central Florida.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original color photograph.
Coverage
Orlando City Hall, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Schneider, Sarah
Publisher
<a href="%E2%80%9Dhttp%3A//riches.cah.ucf.edu/%E2%80%9D">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-06-13
Format
image/jpg
Extent
167 KB
Medium
1 color photograph
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Sarah Schneider and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by RICHES of Central Florida <a href="%E2%80%9Dhttp%3A//riches.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES of Central Florida</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Stoddard, James
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Neale, Rick. ""Orlando vigil attracts thousands to Dr. Phillips Center." <em>Florida Today</em>, June 13, 2016. Accessed April 13, 2017.
Sallah, Michael. "<a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html" target="_blank">What happened between 2 and 5 a.m.? The Orlando massacre, minute by minute</a>." <em>Miami Herald</em>, June 15, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html.
Alvarez, Lizaette and Richard Perez-Pena. "<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0" target="_blank">Orlando Gunman Attacks Gay Nightclub, Leaving 50 Dead</a>." <em>New York Times</em>, June 12, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Sayer, Harry. "<a href="http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#" target="_blank">UPDATED: Every Orlando area vigil and memorial happening this week</a>." <em>Orlando Weekly</em>, June 17, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#.
Bevil, Dewayne and Desiree Stennett. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html" target="_blank">Crowd estimated at 50,000 packs into Lake Eola Park for Pulse vigil</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, June 19, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html.
Weiner, Jeff. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando to buy Pulse nightclub, turn it into memorial</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, November 8, 2016. Accessed November 9, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html.
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
banners
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
GLBT
gun violence
hate crimes
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
mass shootings
memorial
orlando
Orlando City Hall
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
terrorist attacks
vigil
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/1bcac78c6059e5b45b464374a563577c.jpg
946e51c0d54d42ebf581f857e27b2e41
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse Collection
Alternative Title
Pulse Collection
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Schneider, Sarah
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES</a>
Language
eng
Type
Collection
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a>
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Still Image
A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Flowers at Pulse Vigil at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Alternative Title
Flowers at Pulse Vigil
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
Original photograph of three bouquets of flowers laid on the ground at a vigil that was held for the victims of the Pulse Nightclub shooting. The event was held at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts at 445 South Magnolia Avenue in Orlando, Florida, on June 13, 2016. Pulse was located at 1912 South Orange Avenue in Orlando, Florida. In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Type
Still Image
Source
Original color photograph: <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/205" target="_blank">Pulse Collection</a>, RICHES of Central Florida.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original color photograph.
Coverage
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Schneider, Sarah
Publisher
<a href="%E2%80%9Dhttp%3A//riches.cah.ucf.edu/%E2%80%9D">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-06-13
Format
image/jpg
Extent
219 KB
Medium
1 color photograph
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Sarah Schneider and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by RICHES of Central Florida <a href="%E2%80%9Dhttp%3A//riches.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES of Central Florida</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Stoddard, James
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Neale, Rick. ""Orlando vigil attracts thousands to Dr. Phillips Center." <em>Florida Today</em>, June 13, 2016. Accessed April 13, 2017.
Sallah, Michael. "<a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html" target="_blank">What happened between 2 and 5 a.m.? The Orlando massacre, minute by minute</a>." <em>Miami Herald</em>, June 15, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html.
Alvarez, Lizaette and Richard Perez-Pena. "<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0" target="_blank">Orlando Gunman Attacks Gay Nightclub, Leaving 50 Dead</a>." <em>New York Times</em>, June 12, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Sayer, Harry. "<a href="http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#" target="_blank">UPDATED: Every Orlando area vigil and memorial happening this week</a>." <em>Orlando Weekly</em>, June 17, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#.
Bevil, Dewayne and Desiree Stennett. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html" target="_blank">Crowd estimated at 50,000 packs into Lake Eola Park for Pulse vigil</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, June 19, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html.
Weiner, Jeff. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando to buy Pulse nightclub, turn it into memorial</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, November 8, 2016. Accessed November 9, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html.
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
flowers
GLBT
gun violence
hate crimes
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
mass shootings
memorial
orlando
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
terrorist attacks
vigil
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/644828e16b72fa594544e39b9f61d160.jpg
ce5e4f4a2d35d18e847ac28f74a735e9
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse Collection
Alternative Title
Pulse Collection
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Schneider, Sarah
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES</a>
Language
eng
Type
Collection
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a>
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Still Image
A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
John "Buddy" Dyer at Pulse Vigil at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Alternative Title
John "Buddy" Dyer at Pulse Vigil
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Mayors--United States
Description
Original photograph of Orlando Mayor John Hugh "Buddy" Dyer speaking at a vigil that was held for the victims of the Pulse Nightclub shooting. The event was held at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts at 445 South Magnolia Avenue in Orlando, Florida, on June 13, 2016. Pulse was located at 1912 South Orange Avenue in Orlando, Florida. In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Type
Still Image
Source
Original color photograph: <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/205" target="_blank">Pulse Collection</a>, RICHES of Central Florida.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original color photograph.
Coverage
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Schneider, Sarah
Publisher
<a href="%E2%80%9Dhttp%3A//riches.cah.ucf.edu/%E2%80%9D">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-06-13
Format
image/jpg
Extent
87 KB
Medium
1 color photograph
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Civics/Government Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Sarah Schneider and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by RICHES of Central Florida <a href="%E2%80%9Dhttp%3A//riches.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES of Central Florida</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Stoddard, James
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Neale, Rick. ""Orlando vigil attracts thousands to Dr. Phillips Center." <em>Florida Today</em>, June 13, 2016. Accessed April 13, 2017.
Sallah, Michael. "<a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html" target="_blank">What happened between 2 and 5 a.m.? The Orlando massacre, minute by minute</a>." <em>Miami Herald</em>, June 15, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html.
Alvarez, Lizaette and Richard Perez-Pena. "<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0" target="_blank">Orlando Gunman Attacks Gay Nightclub, Leaving 50 Dead</a>." <em>New York Times</em>, June 12, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Sayer, Harry. "<a href="http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#" target="_blank">UPDATED: Every Orlando area vigil and memorial happening this week</a>." <em>Orlando Weekly</em>, June 17, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#.
Bevil, Dewayne and Desiree Stennett. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html" target="_blank">Crowd estimated at 50,000 packs into Lake Eola Park for Pulse vigil</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, June 19, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html.
Weiner, Jeff. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando to buy Pulse nightclub, turn it into memorial</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, November 8, 2016. Accessed November 9, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html.
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
GLBT
gun violence
hate crimes
John Hugh "Buddy" Dyer
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
mass shootings
mayors
memorial
orlando
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
terrorist attacks
vigil
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/9ccceb123b4be9b5b0bcae418d74cb54.jpg
e62579700ad4aa75d6a0508c112ca6f8
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse Collection
Alternative Title
Pulse Collection
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Schneider, Sarah
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES</a>
Language
eng
Type
Collection
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a>
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Still Image
A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse Vigil at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Alternative Title
Dr. Phillips Center Pulse Vigil
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
Original aerial photograph of a vigil that was held for the victims of the Pulse Nightclub shooting. The event was held at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts at 445 South Magnolia Avenue in Orlando, Florida, on June 13, 2016. A crowd is gathered around the site to mourn and pay their respects. Pulse was located at 1912 South Orange Avenue in Orlando, Florida. In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Type
Still Image
Source
Original color photograph: <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/205" target="_blank">Pulse Collection</a>, RICHES of Central Florida.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original color photograph.
Coverage
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Schneider, Sarah
Publisher
<a href="%E2%80%9Dhttp%3A//riches.cah.ucf.edu/%E2%80%9D">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-06-13
Format
image/jpg
Extent
131 KB
Medium
1 color photograph
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Sarah Schneider and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by RICHES of Central Florida <a href="%E2%80%9Dhttp%3A//riches.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES of Central Florida</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Stoddard, James
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Neale, Rick. ""Orlando vigil attracts thousands to Dr. Phillips Center." <em>Florida Today</em>, June 13, 2016. Accessed April 13, 2017.
Sallah, Michael. "<a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html" target="_blank">What happened between 2 and 5 a.m.? The Orlando massacre, minute by minute</a>." <em>Miami Herald</em>, June 15, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html.
Alvarez, Lizaette and Richard Perez-Pena. "<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0" target="_blank">Orlando Gunman Attacks Gay Nightclub, Leaving 50 Dead</a>." <em>New York Times</em>, June 12, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Sayer, Harry. "<a href="http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#" target="_blank">UPDATED: Every Orlando area vigil and memorial happening this week</a>." <em>Orlando Weekly</em>, June 17, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#.
Bevil, Dewayne and Desiree Stennett. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html" target="_blank">Crowd estimated at 50,000 packs into Lake Eola Park for Pulse vigil</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, June 19, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html.
Weiner, Jeff. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando to buy Pulse nightclub, turn it into memorial</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, November 8, 2016. Accessed November 9, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html.
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
crowd
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
flags
flowers
GLBT
gun violence
hate crimes
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
mass shootings
memorial
orlando
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
signs
terrorist attacks
vigil
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/66d3bfe2ac4b531c047b3ba91e479bea.JPG
5cf183eaa53ba9b55be428925fd99229
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/b1c7738d71fa6cb00a108fc6e5177c0c.JPG
c31af2a00e8d62c7bda694dca7eca231
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse Collection
Alternative Title
Pulse Collection
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Schneider, Sarah
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES</a>
Language
eng
Type
Collection
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a>
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Still Image
A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Names of Pulse Victims
Alternative Title
Pulse Victims' Names
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
Original photographs of a painting of a heart with the names of all the victims of a mass shooting that occurred at Pulse nightclub. The canvas painting was placed in front of the club as a tribute to the victims. Pulse was located at 1912 South Orange Avenue in Orlando, Florida.
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Type
Still Images
Source
Original color photographs: <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/205" target="_blank">Pulse Collection</a>, RICHES of Central Florida.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original color photographs.
Coverage
Pulse, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Publisher
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-08-09
Format
image/jpg
Extent
4.94 MB
5.06 MB
Medium
2 color photographs
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Geoffrey Cravero and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Sallah, Michael. "<a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html" target="_blank">What happened between 2 and 5 a.m.? The Orlando massacre, minute by minute</a>." <em>Miami Herald</em>, June 15, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html.
Alvarez, Lizaette and Richard Perez-Pena. "<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0" target="_blank">Orlando Gunman Attacks Gay Nightclub, Leaving 50 Dead</a>." <em>New York Times</em>, June 12, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Sayer, Harry. "<a href="http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#" target="_blank">UPDATED: Every Orlando area vigil and memorial happening this week</a>." <em>Orlando Weekly</em>, June 17, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#.
Bevil, Dewayne and Desiree Stennett. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html" target="_blank">Crowd estimated at 50,000 packs into Lake Eola Park for Pulse vigil</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, June 19, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html.
Weiner, Jeff. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando to buy Pulse nightclub, turn it into memorial</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, November 8, 2016. Accessed November 9, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html.
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
Akyra Monet Murray
Alejandro Barrios Martinez
Amanda Alvear
Angel L. Candelario-Padro
Anthony Luis Laureanodisla
Antonio Davon Brown
Brenda Lee Marquez McCool
Christopher Andrew Leinonen
Christopher Joseph Sanfeliz
Cory James Connell
Darryl Roman Burt II
Deonka Deidra Drayton
Eddie Jamoldroy Justice
Edward Sotomayor Jr.
Enrique L. Rios, Jr.
Eric Ivan Ortiz-Rivera
Frank Hernandez
Franky Jimmy Dejesus Velazquez
Geraldo A. Ortiz-Jimenez
Gilberto Ramon Silva Menendez
GLBT
gun violence
hate crimes
Jason Benjamin Josaphat
Javier Jorge-Reyes
Jean C. Nives Rodriguez
Jean Carlos Mendez Perez
Jerald Arthur Wright
Joel Rayon Paniagua
Jonathan Antonio Camuy Vega
Juan Chevez-Martinez
Juan P. Rivera Velazquez
Juan Ramon Guerrero
Kimberly Morris
Leroy Valentin Fernandez
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
Luis Daniel Conde
Luis Daniel Wilson-Leon
Luis Omar Ocasio-Capo
Luis S. Vielma
Martin Benitez Torres
mass shootings
Mercedez Marisol Flores
Miguel Angel Honorato
orlando
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
Oscar A Aracena-Montero
Paul Terrell Henry
Peter O. Gonzalez-Cruz
Pulse memorial
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
Rodolfo Ayala-Ayala
Shane Evan Tomlinson
Simon Adrian Carrillo Fernandez
Stanley Almodovar III
terrorist attacks
Tevin Eugene Crosby
Xavier Emmanuel Serrano Rosado
Yilmary Rodriguez Solivan
-
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Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse Collection
Alternative Title
Pulse Collection
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Schneider, Sarah
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES</a>
Language
eng
Type
Collection
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a>
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Still Image
A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
St. Matthew's Tavern Pulse Tribute
Alternative Title
Graffiti Honoring Pulse
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
Original photographs of a mural painted on St. Matthew's Tavern in tribute to the victims of the Pulse nightclub shooting. 49 white ribbons, each representing one of the victims, are hung on a palm tree next to the front door.
Located at 1300 North Mills Avenue, the building housing St. Matthew's Tavern was once a neighborhood gay bar called Paradise. St. Matthew's Tavern opened in December 2013, featuring a tavern style theme mixed with church pews. The bar allows St. Dorothy's Catholic Community to host Mass every Sunday at 11:00 a.m. The group celebrates "love without judgment flowing from Catholic Apostolic tradition." St. Dorothy's, who is not affiliated with the Roman Catholic Diocese, welcomes members who are divorced, gay or "recovering" Catholic.
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Type
Still Images
Source
Original color photographs: <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/205" target="_blank">Pulse Collection</a>, RICHES of Central Florida.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original color photographs.
Coverage
St. Matthew's Tavern, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Publisher
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-08-09
Format
image/jpg
Extent
4.97 MB
5.56 MB
5.04 MB
4.91 MB
Medium
4 color photographs
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Geoffrey Cravero and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Sullivan, Erin. "<a href="http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2013/12/03/st-matthews-tavern-offers-bar-and-church-in-one" target="_blank">St. Matthew's Tavern offers bar and church in one</a>." <em>Orlando Weekly</em>, December 3, 2013. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2013/12/03/st-matthews-tavern-offers-bar-and-church-in-one.
Manes, Billy. "<a href="http://www.orlandoweekly.com/orlando/how-st-dorothys-lost-its-chapel-and-found-a-home-in-a-bar/Content?oid=2242319" target="_blank">How St. Dorothy's lost its chapel and found a home in a bar</a>." <em>Orlando Weekly</em>, January 14, 2014. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandoweekly.com/orlando/how-st-dorothys-lost-its-chapel-and-found-a-home-in-a-bar/Content?oid=2242319.
Sallah, Michael. "<a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html" target="_blank">What happened between 2 and 5 a.m.? The Orlando massacre, minute by minute</a>." <em>Miami Herald</em>, June 15, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html.
Alvarez, Lizaette and Richard Perez-Pena. "<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0" target="_blank">Orlando Gunman Attacks Gay Nightclub, Leaving 50 Dead</a>." <em>New York Times</em>, June 12, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Sayer, Harry. "<a href="http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#" target="_blank">UPDATED: Every Orlando area vigil and memorial happening this week</a>." <em>Orlando Weekly</em>, June 17, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#.
Bevil, Dewayne and Desiree Stennett. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html" target="_blank">Crowd estimated at 50,000 packs into Lake Eola Park for Pulse vigil</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, June 19, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html.
Weiner, Jeff. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando to buy Pulse nightclub, turn it into memorial</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, November 8, 2016. Accessed November 9, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html.
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
bars
GLBT
gun violence
hate crimes
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
mass shootings
Mills 50
orlando
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
St. Matthew's Tavern
St. Matthew's Tavern at the Orlando Beer Garden
terrorist attacks
-
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Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse Collection
Alternative Title
Pulse Collection
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Schneider, Sarah
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES</a>
Language
eng
Type
Collection
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a>
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Still Image
A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Rainbow Flags
Alternative Title
LGBT Pride Flags
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
Original photographs of two rainbow flags placed in front of Pulse nightclub in memorial to the victims of the mass shooting that occurred there. The rainbow flag is a symbol of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) pride and the LGBT social movements. It is also used as a symbol of peace and cooperation. Pulse was located at 1912 South Orange Avenue in Orlando, Florida.
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Type
Still Images
Source
Original color photographs: <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/205" target="_blank">Pulse Collection</a>, RICHES of Central Florida.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original color photographs.
Coverage
Pulse, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Publisher
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-08-09
Format
image/jpg
Extent
6.03 MB
5.91 MB
Medium
2 color photographs
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Geoffrey Cravero and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Sallah, Michael. "<a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html" target="_blank">What happened between 2 and 5 a.m.? The Orlando massacre, minute by minute</a>." <em>Miami Herald</em>, June 15, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html.
Alvarez, Lizaette and Richard Perez-Pena. "<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0" target="_blank">Orlando Gunman Attacks Gay Nightclub, Leaving 50 Dead</a>." <em>New York Times</em>, June 12, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Sayer, Harry. "<a href="http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#" target="_blank">UPDATED: Every Orlando area vigil and memorial happening this week</a>." <em>Orlando Weekly</em>, June 17, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#.
Bevil, Dewayne and Desiree Stennett. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html" target="_blank">Crowd estimated at 50,000 packs into Lake Eola Park for Pulse vigil</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, June 19, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html.
Weiner, Jeff. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando to buy Pulse nightclub, turn it into memorial</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, November 8, 2016. Accessed November 9, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html.
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
GLBT
gun violence
hate crimes
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
mass shootings
orlando
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
rainbow flag
terrorist attacks
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/6560337376e04e09c8e9be3ed666a3ad.JPG
1eb500a58ef8853169cb627dbe4a886d
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse Collection
Alternative Title
Pulse Collection
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Schneider, Sarah
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES</a>
Language
eng
Type
Collection
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a>
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Still Image
A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse Sign
Alternative Title
Pulse Nightclub Sign
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
Original photograph of a sign in front of Pulse nightclub containing the club's name and logo. The sign is surrounded by candles, keepsakes, stuffed animals, photographs of victims, drawings, paintings, flowers, arts and crafts, which were placed in tribute to the victims of a mass shooting that occurred there. Pulse was located at 1912 South Orange Avenue in Orlando, Florida.
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Type
Still Image
Source
Original color photograph: <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/205" target="_blank">Pulse Collection</a>, RICHES of Central Florida.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original color photograph.
Coverage
Pulse, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Publisher
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-08-09
Format
image/jpg
Extent
3.99 MB
Medium
1 color photograph
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Geoffrey Cravero and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Sallah, Michael. "<a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html" target="_blank">What happened between 2 and 5 a.m.? The Orlando massacre, minute by minute</a>." <em>Miami Herald</em>, June 15, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html.
Alvarez, Lizaette and Richard Perez-Pena. "<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0" target="_blank">Orlando Gunman Attacks Gay Nightclub, Leaving 50 Dead</a>." <em>New York Times</em>, June 12, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Sayer, Harry. "<a href="http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#" target="_blank">UPDATED: Every Orlando area vigil and memorial happening this week</a>." <em>Orlando Weekly</em>, June 17, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#.
Bevil, Dewayne and Desiree Stennett. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html" target="_blank">Crowd estimated at 50,000 packs into Lake Eola Park for Pulse vigil</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, June 19, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html.
Weiner, Jeff. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando to buy Pulse nightclub, turn it into memorial</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, November 8, 2016. Accessed November 9, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html.
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
GLBT
gun violence
hate crimes
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
mass shootings
orlando
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse nightclub sign
Pulse tributes
terrorist attacks
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/8a78d5cd38d45597e951b2eba74d4730.JPG
f4810c27d2e057a2ec0abaeba57a49b5
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse Collection
Alternative Title
Pulse Collection
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Schneider, Sarah
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES</a>
Language
eng
Type
Collection
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a>
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Still Image
A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Orlando United
Alternative Title
Orlando United City Sign
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
Original photograph of a rainbow colored banner posted by the City of Orlando on a streetlight post on Orange Avenue, down the street from Pulse nightclub. The banner reads, "Orlando United. #OrlandoUnited. Downtown South".
Pulse was located at 1912 South Orange Avenue in Orlando, Florida.
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Type
Still Image
Source
Original color photograph: <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/205" target="_blank">Pulse Collection</a>, RICHES of Central Florida.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original color photograph.
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Publisher
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-08-09
Format
image/jpg
Extent
3.39 MB
Medium
1 color photograph
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Geoffrey Cravero and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Sallah, Michael. "<a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html" target="_blank">What happened between 2 and 5 a.m.? The Orlando massacre, minute by minute</a>." <em>Miami Herald</em>, June 15, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html.
Alvarez, Lizaette and Richard Perez-Pena. "<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0" target="_blank">Orlando Gunman Attacks Gay Nightclub, Leaving 50 Dead</a>." <em>New York Times</em>, June 12, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Sayer, Harry. "<a href="http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#" target="_blank">UPDATED: Every Orlando area vigil and memorial happening this week</a>." <em>Orlando Weekly</em>, June 17, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#.
Bevil, Dewayne and Desiree Stennett. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html" target="_blank">Crowd estimated at 50,000 packs into Lake Eola Park for Pulse vigil</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, June 19, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html.
Weiner, Jeff. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando to buy Pulse nightclub, turn it into memorial</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, November 8, 2016. Accessed November 9, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html.
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
GLBT
gun violence
hate crimes
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
mass shootings
orlando
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
terrorist attacks
-
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Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse Collection
Alternative Title
Pulse Collection
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Schneider, Sarah
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES</a>
Language
eng
Type
Collection
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a>
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Still Image
A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Memorial Items Notice
Alternative Title
Notice About Memorial Items
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
Original photographs of two notices posted for mourners in front of Pulse nightclub after a mass shooting occurred there. Both notices contain a rainbow colored logo of the Lake Eola fountain in the bottom right corner with the caption, "#OrlandoUnited". The first notice reads, "Memorial items will be carefully collected regularly for their long term preservation at the Orange County Regional History Center. For more information, visit thehistorycenter.org." The second notice reads, "Flowers will be collected regularly and organically turned into soil that will be used in gardens throughout the city." Both messages are printed in Spanish and English. Pulse was located at 1912 South Orange Avenue in Orlando, Florida.
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Type
Still Images
Source
Original color photographs: <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/205" target="_blank">Pulse Collection</a>, RICHES of Central Florida.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original color photographs.
Coverage
Pulse, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Publisher
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-08-09
Format
image/jpg
Extent
3.66 MB
3.52 MB
Medium
2 color photographs
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Geoffrey Cravero and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Sallah, Michael. "<a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html" target="_blank">What happened between 2 and 5 a.m.? The Orlando massacre, minute by minute</a>." <em>Miami Herald</em>, June 15, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html.
Alvarez, Lizaette and Richard Perez-Pena. "<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0" target="_blank">Orlando Gunman Attacks Gay Nightclub, Leaving 50 Dead</a>." <em>New York Times</em>, June 12, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Sayer, Harry. "<a href="http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#" target="_blank">UPDATED: Every Orlando area vigil and memorial happening this week</a>." <em>Orlando Weekly</em>, June 17, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#.
Bevil, Dewayne and Desiree Stennett. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html" target="_blank">Crowd estimated at 50,000 packs into Lake Eola Park for Pulse vigil</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, June 19, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html.
Weiner, Jeff. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando to buy Pulse nightclub, turn it into memorial</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, November 8, 2016. Accessed November 9, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html.
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
GLBT
gun violence
hate crimes
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
mass shootings
OCRHC
Orange County Regional History Center
orlando
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
Pulse memorial
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
terrorist attacks
-
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Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse Collection
Alternative Title
Pulse Collection
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Schneider, Sarah
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES</a>
Language
eng
Type
Collection
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a>
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Still Image
A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
For Only Love Can Conquer Hate
Alternative Title
Marvin Gaye Billboard
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Gaye, Marvin
Description
Original photographs of a billboard in The Milk District of downtown Orlando, Florida. The mural features a portrait of singer-songwriter Marvin Gaye in front of a rainbow, along with a quote of his that says, "For only love can conquer hate." The lower left corner says, "Orlando United". Pulse was located at 1912 South Orange Avenue in Orlando, Florida.
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Type
Still Images
Source
Original color photographs: <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/205" target="_blank">Pulse Collection</a>, RICHES of Central Florida.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original color photographs.
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Publisher
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-08-09
Format
image/jpg
Extent
3.06 MB
3.11 MB
3.28 MB
Medium
3 color photographs
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Visual Arts Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Geoffrey Cravero and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Sallah, Michael. "<a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html" target="_blank">What happened between 2 and 5 a.m.? The Orlando massacre, minute by minute</a>." <em>Miami Herald</em>, June 15, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html.
Alvarez, Lizaette and Richard Perez-Pena. "<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0" target="_blank">Orlando Gunman Attacks Gay Nightclub, Leaving 50 Dead</a>." <em>New York Times</em>, June 12, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Sayer, Harry. "<a href="http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#" target="_blank">UPDATED: Every Orlando area vigil and memorial happening this week</a>." <em>Orlando Weekly</em>, June 17, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#.
Bevil, Dewayne and Desiree Stennett. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html" target="_blank">Crowd estimated at 50,000 packs into Lake Eola Park for Pulse vigil</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, June 19, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html.
Weiner, Jeff. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando to buy Pulse nightclub, turn it into memorial</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, November 8, 2016. Accessed November 9, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html.
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
billboards
GLBT
Gringos Locos
gun violence
hate crimes
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
Marvin Gaye
Marvin Pentz Gay Jr.
mass shootings
Milk District
murals
orlando
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
Sportstown Billiards
T.G. Lee Dairy
terrorist attacks
-
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Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse Collection
Alternative Title
Pulse Collection
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Schneider, Sarah
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES</a>
Language
eng
Type
Collection
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a>
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Still Image
A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse's Temporary Fence
Alternative Title
Fence Around Pulse Nightclub
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
Original photographs of a temporary fence erected around Pulse nightclub after a mass shooting occurred there. The chain link fence contains a black tarp with messages written on it along with flags, posters, and other tribute items left there by mourners. Pulse was located at 1912 South Orange Avenue in Orlando, Florida.
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Type
Still Images
Source
Original color photographs: <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/205" target="_blank">Pulse Collection</a>, RICHES of Central Florida.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original color photographs.
Coverage
Pulse, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Publisher
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-08-09
Format
image/jpg
Extent
6.83 MB
4.76 MB
6.29 MB
6.52 MB
6.22 MB
6.68 MB
6.41 MB
4.7 MB
7.09 MB
9.5 MB
Medium
10 color photographs
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Geoffrey Cravero and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Sallah, Michael. "<a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html" target="_blank">What happened between 2 and 5 a.m.? The Orlando massacre, minute by minute</a>." <em>Miami Herald</em>, June 15, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html.
Alvarez, Lizaette and Richard Perez-Pena. "<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0" target="_blank">Orlando Gunman Attacks Gay Nightclub, Leaving 50 Dead</a>." <em>New York Times</em>, June 12, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Sayer, Harry. "<a href="http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#" target="_blank">UPDATED: Every Orlando area vigil and memorial happening this week</a>." <em>Orlando Weekly</em>, June 17, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#.
Bevil, Dewayne and Desiree Stennett. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html" target="_blank">Crowd estimated at 50,000 packs into Lake Eola Park for Pulse vigil</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, June 19, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html.
Weiner, Jeff. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando to buy Pulse nightclub, turn it into memorial</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, November 8, 2016. Accessed November 9, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html.
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
GLBT
gun violence
hate crimes
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
mass shootings
memorial items
orlando
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
terrorist attacks
tribute items
-
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Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse Collection
Alternative Title
Pulse Collection
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Schneider, Sarah
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES</a>
Language
eng
Type
Collection
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a>
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Still Image
A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Water Cooler
Alternative Title
Free Cold Water
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
Original photograph of a large white cooler in front of Pulse nightclub. Messages are written on the cooler, which also has a sign taped to it that says, "FREE COLD WATER". Pulse was located at 1912 South Orange Avenue in Orlando, Florida. Pulse was located at 1912 South Orange Avenue in Orlando, Florida.
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Type
Still Image
Source
Original color photograph: <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/205" target="_blank">Pulse Collection</a>, RICHES of Central Florida.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original color photograph.
Coverage
Pulse, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Publisher
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-08-09
Format
image/jpg
Extent
4.75 MB
Medium
1 color photograph
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Geoffrey Cravero and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Sallah, Michael. "<a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html" target="_blank">What happened between 2 and 5 a.m.? The Orlando massacre, minute by minute</a>." <em>Miami Herald</em>, June 15, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html.
Alvarez, Lizaette and Richard Perez-Pena. "<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0" target="_blank">Orlando Gunman Attacks Gay Nightclub, Leaving 50 Dead</a>." <em>New York Times</em>, June 12, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Sayer, Harry. "<a href="http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#" target="_blank">UPDATED: Every Orlando area vigil and memorial happening this week</a>." <em>Orlando Weekly</em>, June 17, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#.
Bevil, Dewayne and Desiree Stennett. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html" target="_blank">Crowd estimated at 50,000 packs into Lake Eola Park for Pulse vigil</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, June 19, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html.
Weiner, Jeff. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando to buy Pulse nightclub, turn it into memorial</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, November 8, 2016. Accessed November 9, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html.
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
GLBT
gun violence
hate crimes
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
mass shootings
orlando
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
terrorist attacks
water cooler
-
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63471ee95bf0755563983aa22870550d
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse Collection
Alternative Title
Pulse Collection
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Schneider, Sarah
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES</a>
Language
eng
Type
Collection
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a>
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Still Image
A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse Memorial Items
Alternative Title
Memorial Items Outside Pulse Nightclub
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
Original photographs of memorial items placed in front of Pulse nightclub in tribute to the victims of the mass shooting that occurred there. Among the items are photographs, stuffed animals, homemade signs, art, candles, banners, t-shirts, flags, and flowers. Pulse was located at 1912 South Orange Avenue in Orlando, Florida.
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Type
Still Images
Source
Original color photographs: <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/205" target="_blank">Pulse Collection</a>, RICHES of Central Florida.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original color photographs.
Coverage
Pulse, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Publisher
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-08-09
Format
image/jpg
Extent
6.2 MB
6.51 MB
6.5 MB
5.87 MB
5.36 MB
5.36 MB
4.14 MB
Medium
7 color photographs
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Geoffrey Cravero and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Sallah, Michael. "<a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html" target="_blank">What happened between 2 and 5 a.m.? The Orlando massacre, minute by minute</a>." <em>Miami Herald</em>, June 15, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html.
Alvarez, Lizaette and Richard Perez-Pena. "<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0" target="_blank">Orlando Gunman Attacks Gay Nightclub, Leaving 50 Dead</a>." <em>New York Times</em>, June 12, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Sayer, Harry. "<a href="http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#" target="_blank">UPDATED: Every Orlando area vigil and memorial happening this week</a>." <em>Orlando Weekly</em>, June 17, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#.
Bevil, Dewayne and Desiree Stennett. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html" target="_blank">Crowd estimated at 50,000 packs into Lake Eola Park for Pulse vigil</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, June 19, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html.
Weiner, Jeff. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando to buy Pulse nightclub, turn it into memorial</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, November 8, 2016. Accessed November 9, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html.
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
GLBT
gun violence
hate crimes
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
mass shootings
memorial items
orlando
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
Pulse memorial
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
terrorist attacks
tribute items
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/c06e35d9beef4d712846b6f2ae7e4b00.JPG
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82e9f31b4e14734f882d74ff7a138b4e
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Pulse Collection
Alternative Title
Pulse Collection
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Schneider, Sarah
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES</a>
Language
eng
Type
Collection
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a>
Coverage
Orlando, Florida
Still Image
A static visual representation. Examples of still images are: paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type "text" to images of textual materials.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Tribute Candles
Alternative Title
Candles Outside Pulse Nightclub
Subject
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Orlando (Fla.)
Description
Original photographs of two groups of novena prayer candles placed in front of Pulse nightclub in tribute to the victims of the mass shooting that occurred there. Among the candles are keepsakes, stuffed animals, photographs of victims, drawings, paintings, flowers, arts and crafts. Pulse was located at 1912 South Orange Avenue in Orlando, Florida.
In the early hours of June 12, 2016, an American born security guard named Omar Mir Seddique Mateen shot and killed 49 people and wounded an additional 53 at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen, who swore allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), was shot and killed by the Orlando Police Department after a three-hour standoff. The incident was the deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman in United States history, the deadliest terrorist attack in the United States since the September 11th attacks of 2001, and the deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in United States history. Most of the victims were Latino, as the club was hosting a Latin Night at the time of the massacre.
Type
Still Images
Source
Original color photographs: <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/205" target="_blank">Pulse Collection</a>, RICHES of Central Florida.
Is Format Of
Digital reproduction of original color photographs.
Coverage
Pulse, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Publisher
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-08-09
Format
image/jpg
Extent
5.32 MB
6.73 MB
Medium
2 color photographs
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Geoffrey Cravero and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
Copyright to this resource is held by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a> for educational purposes only.
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Sallah, Michael. "<a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html" target="_blank">What happened between 2 and 5 a.m.? The Orlando massacre, minute by minute</a>." <em>Miami Herald</em>, June 15, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article84076637.html.
Alvarez, Lizaette and Richard Perez-Pena. "<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0" target="_blank">Orlando Gunman Attacks Gay Nightclub, Leaving 50 Dead</a>." <em>New York Times</em>, June 12, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/13/us/orlando-nightclub-shooting.html?_r=0.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Sayer, Harry. "<a href="http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#" target="_blank">UPDATED: Every Orlando area vigil and memorial happening this week</a>." <em>Orlando Weekly</em>, June 17, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2016/06/13/heres-every-orlando-area-vigil-and-memorial-happening-for-the-pulse-victims#.
Bevil, Dewayne and Desiree Stennett. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html" target="_blank">Crowd estimated at 50,000 packs into Lake Eola Park for Pulse vigil</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, June 19, 2016. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-vigil-lake-eola-20160619-story.html.
Weiner, Jeff. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando to buy Pulse nightclub, turn it into memorial</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, November 8, 2016. Accessed November 9, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/pulse-orlando-nightclub-shooting/os-pulse-nightclub-orlando-update-20161107-story.html.
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
GLBT
gun violence
hate crimes
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
mass shootings
memorial candles
novena candles
orlando
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
prayer candles
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
religious candles
ritual candles
santeria
terrorist attacks
tribute candles
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/7694b2ecfe6598860bf2dd056777e299.pdf
cbe81dcd3160bddd959946761a697d04
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Orlando Gay Chorus Collection
Alternative Title
Gay Chorus Collection
Is Part Of
Orlando Gay Chorus Collection, RICHES Program
Type
Collection
Digital Collection
<div class="element-text"><a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a></div>
<div class="element-text"> </div>
Subject
Orlando (Fla.)
Music--Florida
Dance--United States
Gay culture--United States
Description
The Orlando Gay Chorus (OGC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts and humanitarian organization, and part of the Gay and Lesbian Association (GALA) of Choruses. Founded on Valentines Day 1990, OGC is not only one of the largest mixed gay choirs in the United States at over 100 members, but they also boast four smaller ensembles that perform annual concerts, cabarets, and a host of community events, such as Come Out With Pride, Orlando Museum of Art’s Festival of Trees, and World AIDS Day memorial services. In 2017, the group performed at over 105 events, including 15 performances for the first anniversary of the Pulse Nightclub tragedy. Members come from all walks of life and all sexual and gender orientations, including straight allies. OGC lives by the motto “Singing the World to a Better Place” and strives to use music to change attitudes and build a stronger community.
Moving Image
A series of visual representations that, when shown in succession, impart an impression of motion.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Oral History of Scott Peterson
Alternative Title
Oral History, Scott Peterson
Subject
Orlando (Fla.)
Music--Florida
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Gay culture--United States
Description
An oral history interview of Scott Peterson, a member of the Orlando Gay Chorus. The interview was conducted by Sarah Schneider at the Orlando Public Library in Orlando, Florida, on October 23rd, 2016. Some of the topics covered include an introduction, joining the Orlando Gay Chorus, his favorite productions, the mass shooting at Pulse nightclub and its aftermath, the Orlando Gay Chorus’s response to the Pulse tragedy, the community response to the tragedy, the significance of Pulse before and after the mass shooting, the role of social media in the aftermath of the tragedy, the long-term consequences of the tragedy, and the significance of the Orlando Gay Chorus.
Table Of Contents
0:00:00 Introduction <br />0:01:17 Joining the Orlando Gay Chorus and favorite productions <br />0:08:14 Mass shooting at Pulse nightclub and its aftermath <br />0:10:01 Orlando Gay Chorus’s response to Pulse tragedy <br />0:21:34 Community response to Pulse tragedy <br />0:25:21 Significance of Pulse before and after tragedy <br />0:28:44 Role of social media in aftermath of tragedy <br />0:30:29 Long-term consequences of Pulse tragedy <br />0:34:32 Significance of Orlando Gay Chorus
Abstract
Oral history interview of Scott Peterson. Interview conducted by Sarah Schneider in Orlando, Florida, on October 23, 2016.
Type
Moving Image
Source
Peterson, Scott. Interviewed by Sarah Schneider, October 23, 2016. Audio record available. <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, Orlando, Florida.
Requires
Multimedia software, such as <a href="http://www.apple.com/quicktime/download/" target="_blank"> QuickTime</a>.
<a href="http://www.adobe.com/products/reader.html" target="_blank">Adobe Acrobat Reader</a>
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/206" target="_blank">Orlando Gay Chorus Collection</a>, LGBTQ+ Collection, RICHES of Central Florida.
Has Format
Digital transcript of original 37-minute, and 49-second oral history: Peterson, Scott. Interviewed by Sarah Schneider. Audio record available. <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, Orlando, Florida.
Coverage
Des Moines, Iowa
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando, Florida
GALA Choruses Festival, Denver, Colorado
Joy Metropolitan Community Church, Orlando, Florida
Orlando, Florida
Pulse nightclub, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Peterson, Scott
Schneider, Sarah
Publisher
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-10-23
Date Copyrighted
2016-10-23
Format
video/mp4
application/pdf
Extent
113 MB
Medium
37-minute, and 49-second audio recording
18-page digital transcript
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Music Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Scott Peterson and Sarah Schneider and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Ahlquist, Karen. <a href="http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/62281651" target="_blank"><em>Chorus and Community</em></a>. Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 2006.
Boedeker, Hal. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/features/os-orlando-gay-chorus-25-years-20150611-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando Gay Chorus marks 25 years</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, October 18, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/features/os-orlando-gay-chorus-25-years-20150611-story.html.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Hyman, Jamie. "<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/2016/06/16/community-rises-mass-shooting-orlando-gay-nightclub-kills-49/" target="_blank">Community rises up after mass shooting at Orlando gay nightclub kills 49</a>." <em>Watermark</em>, June 16, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.watermarkonline.com/2016/06/16/community-rises-mass-shooting-orlando-gay-nightclub-kills-49/.
Transcript
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Stop. Take a break. Let us know. That’s fine. Um, do you have any questions or anything before we start?</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Not off hand.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Okay.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Yeah.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Yeah. Uh, so I’ll sort of introduce it and then—and then I’ll start asking you questions. Oh. And also I won’t be responding. So my job is just to listen, hear your experience and I’ll just…</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>And listen to me…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…ask questions.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>…yammer on.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>But I won’t be saying, “Uh-huh. Yeah. Yeah.” ‘Cause that can get a [<em>laughs</em>]—get annoying when you’re listening to the interview later. So…</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Okay.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>I’m really interested but I just won’t respond. So yeah.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Sounds fair.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Yeah. All set?</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Yeah. We’re good.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Okay.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Alright.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Today is Sunday, October 23<sup>rd</sup>, 2016. My name is Sarah Schneider and I am conducting an oral history interview with Scott Peterson of the Orlando Gay Chorus. The interview is being conducted at the Orlando Public Library in Orlando, Florida.</p>
<p>Thank you for being here.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>It’s my pleasure.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>And can you start off by stating your name for us?</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Scott Peterson.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Thank you.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>That’s right.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>And, um—so could you tell me where you were born and how long you’ve been in Orlando?</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>I was born in Des Moines, Iowa. And finished all my schooling in Iowa. Graduated college from the University of Northern Iowa and then immediately moved to Orlando because my sister was living here. And I didn’t have any other plans [<em>laughs</em>]. So…</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, and, um, how long have you been part of the Orlando Gay Chorus?
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Uh. Well, let’s see. Oh, and then I—I moved here in ’85 to Orlando. And I joined the chorus in Christmas of ‘99—was the first performance that I sang with.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, and what brought you to the chorus?</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>I had had my first relationship and it had ended a couple years prior to that. And, uh, was finally starting to want to be more social again. And—and I knew somebody who sang in the chorus. And I’d been to a couple of performances, but not really very many over the years. I hadn’t really been aware of it. I knew that it existed, but that’s it.</p>
<p>So I went ahead and joined with my friend. And then just completely was taken in by the whole community and the sense of being able to sing, which I’ve always enjoyed since I was a kid. Although I don’t have any formal training in singing. Um, I did take one course one summer during college. But, um—so, uh, I don’t know. It was fun. And there were people that were fun and welcoming. And people to socialize with. So kind of initially, and probably my first motivation, was just to be social. And to be around a lot of other folks that were gay, which was kind of a treat at that point. Rather than just going to the gay bars.</p>
<p>So, uh, it was beautiful. And it was a good cause. And it was all about music, which as I said, I’ve always enjoyed that. Then, thankfully, they were pretty welcoming. I don’t know how—I cannot officially read music but can follow very well. And you can kind of intuitively build, you know, a sense of following the notes and such. So I’m blessed enough to have some natural ability to do that. And to memorize music and—and it started there. So…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm. And what have been some of your favorite productions or events you’ve done over the years with them?</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>[<em>sighs</em>] Oh. Favorite things. Well, the GALA<a title="" href="#_ftn1">[1]</a> Festivals that they go to every four years are very memorable. Um, I didn’t go to one that happened the very first—or that following year after I joined. I was just a little green and not prepared to—to take a week off and invest the money that it takes to go on a trip to wherever the festivals are.</p>
<p>Um, but, uh, been to four of them now. The first one I went to was in Montreal[, Québec, Canada], which was fun ‘cause that was the first time I’d actually been out of the country. So it was just overwhelming and very empowering to be at a place where there are all these people that are committed to making music and to the whole putting ourselves out there to—to kind of help bring about change ultimately. Very intrica—very slowly sometimes. But ultimately, if you just keep at it things do change. So that’s what I felt.</p>
<p>So to be surrounded in that festival with all these people singing for each other—[inaudible]. I mean there’s a little bit of competition in a way just because people are naturally that way. But it’s not a completion. It’s just a festival of celebration. And celebrate all the choruses and all their efforts no matter how big they are or small.</p>
<p>So, uh, it was very emotional. And it was very empowering. And kind to—all those experiences, and being with the chorus—I was thinking about that before I came today. It’s like, <em>What has it done for me s—on a personal level?</em> Uh, and I was reflecting on that is to—growing up when I grew up, ‘cause I’m 57. 57 now. I was born in ’59. So my high school years were the ‘70s. I graduated high school in ’77. And at that point in time, being gay and in the Midwest, it was, you know. Des Moines’s a pretty good city. Pretty multicultural in some respects. But still it was pretty conservative. And it was in the ‘70s. And I didn’t know any other gay people. And, uh, you feel pretty isolated. And at first you don’t even know how to i—how to identify yourself that way. ‘Cause that was kind of—you didn’t have anything—there was nothing on television really to help you compare or contrast or to identify with. It was just knowing that you had a little different sense of people. And what you were attracted to as far as people. And not knowing what to do with that. And, of course, all the natural guilt that we’re always subjected to with society.</p>
<p>And so that would have colored[?] my whole experience about myself and who I was. And about my sexuality. And then college kind of helped me explore a little bit to at least realize what I was about that way. And then, uh, you know, you muddle through. You get through college. And you find employment. And start your career. And then—but joining the chorus was the first time that I routinely was exposed to a large number of gay people, where you start to have some senses like, <em>Well, this is—it’s just—it’s—there’s diversity like crazy. Just as there is in the—in the straight population or the population of what you don’t even know what people are.</em> And then to be in a gay population on a routine basis like that kind of helped me increasingly feel okay I guess about my sexuality. Even though I felt pretty blessed. My parents weren’t really—they weren’t shocked. Um, they were pretty—my parents had actually had parties and in—invited, uh, at least a couple of gay couples to ‘em over the years. But that was it. That was my only exposure. At least I had that much, thankfully. I was actually pretty grateful to—to them that they were open-minded enough to at least have that come into my awareness as a kid so I had some idea of where I might possibly go with my relationships.</p>
<p>But—but the chorus has been, as I said, s—it’s such a[sic] empowering experience. Growthful[sic]. Yeah. You know?</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mm. And so you mentioned that you went to the GALA Chorus [Festival] in Montreal and …</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Montreal…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…um, [inaudible]…</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>…and then we had one in Miami[, Florida] four years later. And then now we’ve had two in Denver[, Colorado], which was really fun. I think the next one—next one is in Minneapolis[, Minnesota] in another four years.</p>
<p>So, uh, they’re all very different. And—and to be immersed not only in your local community, but then to see such a massive community when you go to a GALA Festival. It’s like the hotels are full and the people out and about. And everybody’s being very prideful. And sh—displaying whatever. Whatever their lives are about with some sense of freedom to just express yourself and whatever it is. It’s—it’s a very beautiful thing. So…</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mm. And so, um, how did you hear about the Pulse shooting when you were…
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>I, uh…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…in Orlando?</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>…well—well, it was Sunday. I don’t remember what I was doing anymore. I picked it up on the radio I guess. I listen to a lot of public radio. It’s kind of my go-to. And then the information started coming in. And it was, um—it’s one of those things you just, um—I guess it’s what you routinely hear with people who go through some kind of horrific event. You don’t really realize what’s going on right away. Or how it’s impacting you right away. A certain amount of you just kind of goes into shock.</p>
<p>And then there were also—first thing is you’re, you know, so concerned about, <em>Was there anybody that I was close to that could have been there?</em> It’s not a club that I frequented. I’d been a couple of times years ago. But, uh, I know a diverse group of people. And some are younger. Would tend to possibly have been there. And—and, uh—and you go through those—that time of trying to identify. And Facebook had this, uh, check-in feature that they put out, which was really nice. ‘Cause you could immediately go and find the people with that. But there was one particular person that I had in mind that it was like really concerned. I mean he wasn’t checking in. And it’s like—and so I had some of that sense of not knowing for a while. But that all worked out okay. But, certainly, I have friends of friends who either were pa—died or dramatically injured. So a lot of people were affected.</p>
Um, and then it was interesting how the chorus was in that position. We were asked to come help right away as far as memorials or—there was one—I don’t know if it was that—it was Monday night I think. At Joy MCC<a title="" href="#_ftn2">[2]</a>. I don’t—I can’t remember the timing anymore. But one, very quickly, the—the—the MCC Church had a big memorial. Gathering people. And they asked the chorus to come and we were there. And then they just started coming more and more frequently. You know? A couple two or three times a week. Sometimes it became—suddenly these outreach experiences—what we called them is outreaches. When we perform outside of our regular big events—were happening routinely. And it was, um, kind of a journey. Kind of cathartic in a way ‘cause it was forcing us to re-experience our emotional reaction to what was happening. Kind of over and over again. So it probably helped speed up the process of recovering. Maybe. I don’t know. [inaudible]. It was pretty overwhelming, those first few days.
<p>I had kind of in a way—thankfully was, uh, due to leave town for a week to go spend time with my family. So went to a few outreaches and then I was pulled away to do that. And I kind of was glad because I felt like I needed a—it was so intense, the experience here, that it felt good to be pulled away and to go and kind of recover privately for a while. And then to—came back and—and involved in a lot of the outreaches as much as I can. Again since then. So…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>…uh, Pulse kind of changed the whole trajectory of the chorus’s activity level.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Yeah.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>And so can you say more about what—what the experience was like at the visual—at the vigils, um…</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Uh, the vigils…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…what was that like?</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Uh, just very sorrowful. Um, especially the first time. There’s just a lot of tears. And realizing how you’re impacted and not even understanding when I haven’t personally lost someone that was integral to my life, and yet as a community, it felt so close to home. It felt very personal emotionally. Um, so I—that was—I kind of lost track of my—what was your question again?</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, what was—what was it like being at the vigil? What was the atmosphere like? Um…</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Oh. So that—yeah. So to—again, that cathartic [inaudible]—to even realize that you’re that hurt. You’re going through these expressions of caring and recognizing what’s happened to people. And what’s happened to our community. And—and the lives of those people who were impacted very, uh, personally. Um, being put into your awareness over and over again. With the ringing of the bells for instance. The most—other than that first night when we sang at Joy MCC Church, which was poignant. And the place was just full of people. It was very intense. And there were many pastors of many different faiths who were up at the front. And everybody trying to find their way to identify what’s happened. And—and to comfort. And to—to recognize the people that have lost their lives initially. It just—that emotional experience kept ebbing and flowing as far as how intense it would feel.</p>
<p>But, uh, the most memorable thing was the, um—the sea of people that showed up for the—the memorial vigil that was, um, at the Dr. Phillips Center [for the Performing Arts] in that large yard out in front that backs up to the City Hall. And we showed up kind of early like we always do to try and get organized. And we’re usually preoccupied with where we—where are we gonna be? How many of us are gonna be here? What music are we gonna sing? Who’s gonna direct? It’s just logistics issues. And then we’re doing a lot of waiting. And then, finally, we go up onstage. And we’ve got everything prepared. We know what we’re gonna do. And you look out and the sun is starting to go down. And so the—the atmosphere ultimately became candles. And just a sea of people. And—and, uh, the ringing of the bells at the church next door. It, um—uh, very memorable.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Never ever in—in life I can’t imagine things much more poignant.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mm.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Um, that was—yeah. Well, that’s what I remember.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm. Um, and you said that the vigils continued over time.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Lots of small…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>[inaudible].</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>…events. Um—uh, there have been—first responders had a breakfast. I know that some of us went and sang—I think they sang a song and—off—or national anthem maybe to start their event. So a lot of different groups that would never have thought to reach out to the chorus for—to help make their event. To help add to the ceremony. We’ve been doing that routinely now. So, uh, first responders. Um, the different pride events around Central Florida. We just did Volusia [County] this weekend. And we did, uh, one over in Melbourne[, Florida], uh, perhaps three—I think three weeks ago. Um, we have others that are coming up that had just—like two or three a week. It’s slowed down a little but now, but there still are—we’re frequently thought of and asked if we can come and support and sing a couple songs or, uh—Volusia we just did a 30, 40-minute set for them to help celebrate pride. Um, so that’s been frequent.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>We used to do—I would say the chorus would do probably 10 or a dozen outreaches maybe over a span of a year before that. Normally we have two major performances. Um, one for the holiday and one in the spring. Um, which are full-on, you know, performances at the, uh, Plaza Theater<a title="" href="#_ftn3">[3]</a>. And then we also offer three, uh—what do they call them? Cabarets. Through the year. Um, one was[sic] just happened this Friday. Thursday? Thursday. Friday? Well, anyway, it just happened. And it was Friday. And <em>Uncut</em>’s a little racy. So that happens at the Parliament House, which is an appropriate setting to have racy kind of [<em>laughs</em>]—a racy show. And then the other one—one is called <em>Love Is</em>, which is sweet and comes[?] around Valentine’s Day, which is the anniversary of the chorus. Valentine’s Day. And then the other one I’m trying to [inaudible] continue off the top of my head right at the moment with the other ensemble or the outreach [inaudible]. Um, whatever it is that they’re called.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>But we’ve been doing that for a long time. So have five performances that are kind of built into our schedule here.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Aside from that.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>And what were some of the songs and their content of the—of what you sang? Um, and was that typical or different for…</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>For the vigils?</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…the vigils? Yeah.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Uh, thankfully we had just finished a—a performance that—this spring that had a few songs that kind of lent to the subject matter of what would feel appropriate to sing. Uh, “True Colors” is one that kind of became a signature so to speak to the event. Uh, we sang that at the—the [Joy] MCC Church that first night. And they’ve done it many, many times since then. Um, it just works.</p>
<p>There were quite a few songs. Uh, I’m not really the best to tell you as far as pulling times off the top of my head. But, um, “You’ll Never Walk Alone” has been used a lot. “True Colors”. Um, I don’t know. I can almost see the titles. But—and, uh, we had—we were preparing to go to Denver for the latest GALA Festival [<em>door closes</em>] right at the same time that Pulse happened. We’d already put together a different song format when we’re preparing to learn songs to go to GALA this last, um, June. June or July. And then—July. And then changed and actually used music that had been from our just previous concert that we already pretty much knew. And pretty much sculpted the theme of the musical we presented to be appropriate to the tragedy at Pulse when we went to GALA.</p>
<p>So that was a very interesting experience. Going to GALA right after that. Being with the larger gay community from across the country, uh, was extremely moving. Uh, the other choruses were very, uh, acknowledging of what our chorus had done. And how we were—had responded to the community’s need. And also, what had probably—I assume they were sensing would have affected us personally, being so close to the tragedy. Um, it was a very, uh—when you’re kind of hurt and you want to be with family. Or, you know, when you kind of want to retreat. It felt something like that on a—but on this global scale with so many people. It was so, uh, uplifting and heartwarming to realize that you could kind of let yourself down and—and repeatedly break into tears occasionally. Just because you’re remembering or you’re realizing how much you’ve been holding attention from what had happened. And trying to be there and be strong for the community. And yet, you have your own needs. Your own personal adjustment that you’re still going through. So they were—they were beautiful. All the choruses.</p>
<p>And—and especially during our performance when we were sculpting it to recognize what had happened at Pulse. And we had some visuals that went with the music. And it became a whole—that whole theater was just full of people emotionally responding and singing with us at one particular song. Um, I wish I could tell you which it was off the top of my head. But the whole place is trying to sing. And—and crying through it at the same time, which the chorus was even suffering a little bit on trying to keep ourselves together. It was such a memorable—everyone holding hands through this massive—it’s a big, huge theater that—where we were. It’s just really emotional.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>And helpful. Beautiful at the same time. It was hard. So…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mm.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Yeah. But that’s been life.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm. Yeah. I was wondering what your thoughts have been about the reaction either of the other gay choruses or of the local communities or…
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Local community?</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…everything. I’m curious what—yeah.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Um, I’m really surprised…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>…honestly. And proud of Orlando. And how it’s—it seemed to step up to and recognize and embrace. I mean at—this tragedy certainly affected everybody in the local vicinity more personally because it was so close to home. But to have the sense that they were embracing the gay community and the Latin gay community. And just trying to comfort is how it felt. It felt like they were really ready to step up and—and try and protect and comfort.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mm.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Especially those subsects of our—subsets of our community that may have felt it more personally. Um, and I still see some of that. And it’s still—it’s changed my concept of Orlando. As far as the culture, I always felt that it was a—it’s a nice place. I’ve enjoyed living here. But it always seems for newcomers—I always hear that it’s kind of hard to make friends. It’s hard to meet people. It’s hard to find a community to connect with. Um, and that seems much in contrast with what I saw happen after Pulse. And how the whole city seemed to react and want to—to mourn together and to recognize together. And to—and to support the people that were hurt personally as much as possible, too. It’s been very beautiful.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>I really am proud and surprised at how—to the degree which this—that everybody stepped up [<em>sighs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Yeah. Did you, um, experience feedback as part of the gay chorus from [inaudible]—um, did you hear from people outside the local community? Um, I know you mentioned being at GALA. But was there anything else that you heard from other communities after Pulse happened?</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Well, of course, my family. My family’s across the coun—my sister’s in Asheville[, North Carolina]. And, um, my parents live with my brother and his family—step-sister are all back in the Des Moines area still. Um, so you know that sense, it’s kind of like when a hurricane happens or some other horrific thing, it’s like family calls to check in. Friends from far away will call to check in to make sure you’re alright. And there was some of that, too. You could tell that the whole country on different—to whatever degree that they would recognize what was happening here. It was very personal crisis for the people that are nearby. Anyway, I—I saw them and quite a bit.</p>
<p>And the news. I tend to listen to public radio, as I said. So public radio tends to be a little bit more socially maybe sensitive. Maybe minded. And so I did hear stories about things around the country. And people having vigils around the country. And it was nice to—to…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>…feel supported that way.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, what are your thoughts about—do you have—you mentioned you’d been to Pulse, but it maybe wasn’t a central place for you. But what sort of—what did you think of it then? And what, if anything, does it mean to you or represent to you now?
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>That’s a—well, initially it became one of those places where you have to make a choice. Are you prepared to drive by, of course, for the first couple of months. They were—I think it was a couple of months before I decided to travel down Orange Avenue. Um, and I was kind of glad it wasn’t as—I was glad I finally did it. It wasn’t as awful as I thought. And then, uh, I don’t know. I just—it wasn’t a real personal club for me. Like I said, I was thought it was more for a younger [inaudible]—uh, age group generally. It’s a generalization.</p>
<p>But, um, the memorial of—that’s been built there with people responding—I’ve seen many people like taking vigils to go and experience some sense of being closer to the people that were hurt and were killed. Uh, they’re still real present. I mean just the other night we went to the vigil that, um—it was a[sic] art experience. They were trying to do healing with art. And created this big banner. And, uh, put it up on the side of the wall. And this was the first time apparently that they’ve allowed public inside the fencing that was put up as a perimeter to protect the—the building and—and the investigation that was going on initially.</p>
<p>So it—it was interesting. It kind of felt like an opportunity for—or a time for the community to start taking back a little bit. It’s like to—a place that nobody seemed welcome inside of anymore. It was like a forbidden kind of sense about it. And now it feels like that’s starting to be chipped away at. And that I guess I can—apparently, I understand that they may reestablish a cl—the club there. Or…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mm.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>…I think that that’s the plan. I don’t really pay attention to this ultimately. But—or that there may be a memorial. Or I don’t know what they’re going to do. But, um—but I think that was like—it was an experience, again, where eventually it will be taken back. And every bill—everybody will have access to that. What was apparently a really central place for a community to meet. For all the folks that were frequent—frequently went there.</p>
<p>But, um, it was kind of nice. I’m glad that they had that event. That started making [inaudible]. But hard to imagine actually walking in there. But everything will change. And everything does eventually heal. No matter what the trauma you experience in your life. Every—time always makes things okay again. All the time—or at least livable. So I can see them having a club again.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>[inaudible].</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm. Um, and did—did social media play any role in your experience of the aftermath of the shooting? I mean you mentioned the checking in.
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>The checking in.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>[inaudible].</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>And then really moving was seeing the mosaics. People were creating mosaics of the people whose lives were lost immediately. Um, which was beautiful in a way because it made it more personal. You can see someone’s face. And you can—it helps—it helps me sense that I had an emotional connection to the people that died. And I actually—although I’ll never have known them, but it just—something about seeing human faces, and it—it helped. It helped make it more real and made the emotions seem to make sense.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>So that was really dramatic. Facebook really made that possible. Um, a much quicker way. You know, all the expressions of love. And all the outreaches that the chorus would do. There’s always pictures taken. And posting so you can identify that you were there. And kind of helps create a, um—a—a record. Like a personal record, too. Just, you know—you can save posts. And now I have something that can ultimately go back and when I want to remember what that journey was like and what it felt like at different points of time after that happened. Um, it’s a very beautiful thing that we have that. To—to personally archive events that happened to us to easy[sic].</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mm. Um, so what do you hope that the long-term consequences of the Pulse shooting will be for the Orlando gay community, um, and for the larger city as a whole?
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Or even the country I…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>…hope. I—I thought of this fairly early on, too. It’s like it seems so almost—I don’t know. I almost feel a little bit of, um—a little bit of guilt on some level of wanting to see a silver lining when people’s lives were taken. Where people’s lives were so dramatically altered and hurt. Um, but I kind of felt that or sensed it that that potential existed kind of early on. It’s like such an awful thing to see the way the country was reacting, and in particular the way Orlando was reacting, was very heartwarming. Very encouraging. Um, to further what has been such a long struggle as people have put themselves out there.</p>
<p>And many people have died over time as a result of a focused assault on gay people. But, uh, I’ve seen a lot change in my lifetime in that respect. Even to the point of gay marriage now being legal, which when I was a kid—when I was a teenager, never would have dreamt of such a thing ever. Not in my—from that vantage point, seeing what it was like to be gay. And that it was such a closeted thing. And—and, uh—and that people could get hurt. That—to think it could come to the point where finally the majority of people recognize and stand up and were willing to protect rights of gay people, too.</p>
<p>Um, so it kind of seems like we’ve come through so much already. And then to have such an awful event. And then to witness, because so much has already been done socially, where people are getting to the point where they seem to understand a little bit, that just like anybody else—that gay people have—need to be protected and cared for just like any other subsects in our country. Um, it kind of—it seems like there’s some beautiful, divine plan. That ultimately, society is growing. Society is getting better towards—towards everybody’s benefit. That I think the more inclusive we are, the more able to empathize with and care for people that are—have different experiences than what we have. That ultimately, we’re all better off. That that’s a much stronger place to be. Which is kind of somewhat helpful because the other influences across the world don’t seem like we’re going that way. There’s so much hate. And the terrorism. And all the misunderstanding. People don’t understand each other. And people get all confused about what other people’s motivations are. So much destruction happens, but this is kind of a case of—we’re seeing something getting better. That maybe for the human race in general that there’s some—that there’s better hope that we can continue to be better at taking care of each other.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>So just a nice piece of evidence that there is hope.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Yeah.</p>
<strong>Schneider</strong><br /><p>Um, do you have any other reflections about the Pulse shooting or being a member of the gay chorus? Or anything else that—that you’d like to talk about?</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Um, the Pulse shooting? No. The gay chorus is, uh—it’s kind of interesting ‘cause I’m becoming one of the older members in the chorus now [<em>laughs</em>]. Um, ‘cause when I joined, let’s see—’99 I would have been—I was 41? Yeah. 40. I was 40 when I joined the chorus, which is—well, it’s still relatively—and I’m still relatively young. But—but a lot of time has gone on. And we have younger people now that are part of the chorus. We’ve always been really good at having a pretty diverse, uh, age group. Like we have some folks that have been in their eighties. I think we had a member that was 80 plus. And we’ve had some that were actually minors still. And, um, a parent would join the chorus as a support person. And then the minor child was singing with the chorus. We’ve had that happen more than once.</p>
<p>So, uh, it’s interesting to see the young people and—that get to experience—especially young gay people because of that community we have. And to see how their lives are so much different than what my life was like going through those times of [inaudible]. Um, it’s nice. It’s a—it’s something that’s alive. It’s a community that continues to grow. It has generations. It’s, um—it’s—it’s very much like a big family in a way. It’s still—and some of the relationships are actually in some ways more important that some folks develop than maybe the relationships that they currently have with their family members. ‘Cause there are still people that suffer from not having support. Or—or have relationships that are severely damaged with their biological family. Hopefully a lot less than it used to be. But that does certainly still happen. Even with the young folks. So in that respect, also, the chorus becomes more than just s—it becomes friendships. And it becomes people you rely on. And people that will be there when crises happen. And we kind of take care of each other. And respect[?] us[?]. So it’s interesting how the chorus is more than just a singing group. And more than just a, uh, social advancement movement. That it’s also a huge community of people. And it’s kind of nice. That’s how I feel about the chorus.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Is there anything else you wanted to share or talk about?</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>[<em>sighs</em>] No. Not off the top of my head [<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Yeah.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Well, thank you so much. We really appreciate that you were willing to do an interview.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Thanks for all of the effort to—this is a beautiful thing…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Yeah.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>… that you’re doing. How many interviews do you think you’re having?</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um [<em>sighs</em>]. Maybe about 30. I’m—I’m not positive.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Oh. It’s…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>But I know a good number…</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>…yeah.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…at least. Yeah. Yeah.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Hm.That’s a good third, approximately…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Yeah.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>…of the chorus. That’s great.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Yeah. Thank you so much.</p>
<p><strong>Peterson<br /></strong>Thank you.</p>
<div><br /><div>
<p><a title="" href="#_ftnref1">[1]</a> Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses</p>
</div>
<div>
<p><a title="" href="#_ftnref2">[2]</a> Joy Metropolitan Community Church</p>
</div>
<div>
<p><a title="" href="#_ftnref3">[3]</a> The Plaza Live</p>
</div>
</div>
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
Asheville
chorus
Denver
Des Moines
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Facebook
first responders
first responders breakfast
fundraisers
GALA Choruses Festival
Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses
gay marriage
Geoffrey Cravero
GLBT
GLBTQ+
gun violence
hate crimes
homophobia
homosexuality
JMCC
Joy MCC
Joy Metropolitan Community Church
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
Love Is
mass shootings
Melbourne
Miami
Minneapolis
Montreal
orlando
Orlando Gay Chorus
outreach events
Parliament House
Plaza Theater
Pulse massacre
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
Sarah Schneider
Scott Peterson
social media
terrorist attacks
The Plaza Live
True Colors
Uncut
University of Northern Iowa
vigils
You’ll Never Walk Alone
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/ebc980fc9d13db0bcd5793015f93ddb6.pdf
c89536571af9b880da1eb9b33521d283
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
LGBTQ+ Collection
Is Part Of
LGBTQ+ Collection, RICHES Program
Digital Collection
<div class="element-text"><a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a></div>
<div class="element-text"> </div>
Oral History
A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Oral History of Patty Sheehan
Alternative Title
Oral History, Patty Sheehan
Subject
Orlando (Fla.)
Music--Florida
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Gay liberation movement
Gay rights
Municipal government--United States
Description
An oral history interview of Patty Sheehan, Orlando’s first openly gay city commissioner. The interview was conducted by Kalynn Smith at Sheehan’s offices at Orlando City Hall in Orlando, Florida, on April 11th, 2017. Some of the topics covered include an introduction, how the challenges of growing up gay shaped her activism, how coming out affected her familial relationships and career, identifying items in her collection, Michael’s March and bringing together the gay and lesbian communities over HIV/AIDS, the stigma of HIV/AIDS and how shame kills, facing discrimination while running for office, civil rights activism as city commissioner, becoming an advocate for marriage equality, and her favorite accomplishments as City Commissioner.
Table Of Contents
0:00:00 Introduction <br />0:01:52 How challenges of growing up gay shaped activism <br />0:06:05 How coming out affected familial relationships and career <br />0:12:49 Identifying items in collection <br />0:15:25 Michael’s March and bringing together the gay and lesbian communities over HIV/AIDS <br />0:23:38 The stigma of HIV/AIDS and how shame kills <br />0:28:51 Facing discrimination while running for office <br />0:33:22 Civil rights activism as city commissioner <br />0:37:22 Becoming an advocate for marriage equality <br />0:44:14 Favorite accomplishments as City Commissioner
Abstract
Oral history interview of Patty Sheehan. Interview conducted by Kalynn Smith in Orlando, Florida, on April 11, 2017.
Type
Moving Image
Source
Sheehan, Patty. Interviewed by Kalynn Smith, April 11, 2017. Audio record available. <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, Orlando, Florida.
Requires
Multimedia software, such as <a href="http://www.apple.com/quicktime/download/" target="_blank"> QuickTime</a>.
<a href="http://www.adobe.com/products/reader.html" target="_blank">Adobe Acrobat Reader</a>
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/207" target="_blank">LGBTQ+ Collection</a>, RICHES of Central Florida.
Has Format
Digital transcript of original 53-minute, and 1-second oral history: Sheehan, Patty. Interviewed by Kalynn Smith. Audio record available. <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, Orlando, Florida.
Coverage
Audubon Park Covenant Church, Orlando, Florida
Greenwood Cemetery
Lake Eola Park
Orlando
Pulse nightclub
Creator
Sheehan, Patty
Smith, Kalynn
Publisher
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2017-04-11
Date Copyrighted
2017-04-11
Format
video/mp4
application/pdf
Extent
342 MB
Medium
53-minute, and 1-second audio recording
25-page digital transcript
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Civics/Government Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Patty Sheehan and Kalynn Smith and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Hyman, Jamie. "<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/2016/06/16/community-rises-mass-shooting-orlando-gay-nightclub-kills-49/" target="_blank">Community rises up after mass shooting at Orlando gay nightclub kills 49</a>." <em>Watermark</em>, June 16, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.watermarkonline.com/2016/06/16/community-rises-mass-shooting-orlando-gay-nightclub-kills-49/.
Manes, Billy. "<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/2015/10/22/five-for-fighting-orlando-city-commissioner-patty-sheehan-isnt-going-anywhere/" target="_blank">Five for fighting: Orlando City Commissioner Patty Sheehan isn't going anywhere</a>." <em>Watermark</em>, October 22, 2015. Accessed May 17, 2017. http://www.watermarkonline.com/2015/10/22/five-for-fighting-orlando-city-commissioner-patty-sheehan-isnt-going-anywhere/.
Pilkington, Ed. "<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/jun/17/orlandos-first-out-gay-elected-official-weve-been-dealing-with-hatred-forever" target="_blank">Orlando's first out gay elected official: 'We've been dealing with hatred forever'</a>. <em>The Guardian</em>, June 17, 2016. Accessed May 17, 2017. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/jun/17/orlandos-first-out-gay-elected-official-weve-been-dealing-with-hatred-forever.
Transcript
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>S—you good?</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>Alright. I am, uh, Kalynn Smith, a UCF<a title="" href="#_ftn1">[1]</a> undergraduate. I am interning for the GLBT<a title="" href="#_ftn2">[2]</a> History Museum of Central Florida. With me is Geoffrey Cravero. Um, we are conducting an oral history with Orlando City Commissioner Patty Sheehan in her offices, uh, in, um, [<em>smacking sound</em>] Orlando, Florida, on April 11<sup>th</sup>, 2017.</p>
<p>Uh, Commissioner Sheehan, thank you…</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Thank you.</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>…for agreeing to speak with us today.</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Sure.</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>Um, I am currently working on processing your collection…</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<strong>Smith<br /></strong>…with the GLBT Museum.
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>There’s a collection?</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>And…</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>Yes [<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>I didn’t realize that. Okay.</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>Yeah. It’s, uh, mostly artifacts…</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Okay.</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>…and, um, a couple like journal entries. And, um, a few things like that.</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>And we just had a few questions regarding, um, uh, specific artifacts and…</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Okay. Sure.</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>…some personal biography.</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Alrighty. Absolutely.</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>So, um, first, if we could start off by, um, having you state your name and tell us a little bit about where you’re from.</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Sure. I’m Commissioner Patty Sheehan of—I’m in Orlando, Florida. I’ve been in office since 2000. So I’ve been doing this for 17 years. Um, and I’m well-known for my advocacy of pedestrian safety, walkable neighborhoods, um, Main Street districts, which are blowing up and very exciting around Orlando, and pedestrian safety, which I got death threats for my first couple of years in office. And ended up being one the hardest things I’ve ever done. Putting sidewalks within a mile of ele—every elementary school. So people think that sometimes issues like LGBTQ<a title="" href="#_ftn3">[3]</a> can be difficult. You’d be surprised what things people will threaten you on and everything like that. So it’s not always easy being an elected official [<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<strong>Smith<br /></strong>[<em>smacking sound</em>] Um, what was the atmosphere like regarding LGBTQ issues when you were growing up?
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Oh, gosh. I mean I was raised Catholic. So, you know, this was something that was worse than being a murderer. So I really hid who I was. I struggled very much with it. I had a really hard time. There were times I was suicidal. And I wanted to end it all because I just couldn’t accept who I was. Um, I had a very difficult time. I’ve—I’ve given a story to, um—to, you know, the folks that talk about—about suicide among young LGBTQ people because I think it’s really important. The, uh, It Gets Better Project. Because I think it’s important for young people to realize that they may struggle. I struggled. Um, and it, you know—just because it’s—maybe it’s somewhat easier now to come out and be who you are, we still have a long way to go. Um, there’s still children being bullied in school. There are still children who are not being accepted for who they are in terms of transgender issues. People can still be fired from their jobs for who they are.</p>
<p>So, you know, I get some blowback for those folks who say, “Patty, why can’t you just be quiet? Why can’t you just blend in? Why can’t you just—why can’t we just have unity?” Well, that’s usually what’s said by the dominant culture when they want to put you down. “Oh. Well, Black Lives Matter and the LGBTQ community and all these people are making it difficult for us.” No. You’ve actually made it difficult for us. And we’re just trying to live and be who we are. And it’s re—something that’s really, really, um, offensive to me and—is this notion somehow that we have to bury who we are. “Oh. Ya’ll have the right to marriage. Why can’t you just be quiet?” Um, you know, there’s always been this desire to keep the LGBTQ people in the closet. And I find that very offensive.</p>
<p>Uh, I was talking to, eh—years and years ago, I was talking to, um, uh, an African-American activist. And she says, “Well, you know, you’re difference is—is different from mine because you can hide yours.” And I asked her, “If you could hide your difference, would you? Would you hide your skin color if you could?” And she looked at me. And it was an “aha moment” for her. And I can’t even believe—I don’t even know where that came from out of me. ‘Cause I’m not even—I’m not—I don’t think—I don’t consider myself that eloquent.</p>
<p>But Pat—then people that—“why don’t you just hide who you are?” Well, you know what? When you’re work—when you’re at work with people and they all talk about where they went on—you know, on vacation or on—what they did on the weekend, you know it—it’s[sic] puts you in a very difficult situation. When I was a younger woman, I was, you know, attractive woman. “Where’s your boyfriend?” Where—you know, there is—there is—people don’t understand because they’re straight that these are things that they take for granted. And these are things that we can’t—couldn’t talk about back then.</p>
<p>So I think there’s still a long way to go. I’m—I’ve been very, um, vocal since the Pulse tragedy, uh, that this happened to the LGBTQ community. And even our allies—some of our allies have gone back on me and said, “Why can’t you just be nice? Why can’t you just be unified?” And I’m like, “You can’t erase us. Yes. There were straight people that died at Pulse, too. But that doesn’t mean that we have to erase who we are to make it okay. Um, they were—they were targeted because they were young, they were gay and they were Latin—you know, QLatinx. They were people of color. And they were straight allies. And there—we shouldn’t have to erase who they were in order to make it okay for everybody else. Because we do have to take, as a culture, responsibility for how we te—how we treat LGBTQ people.”</p>
<p>In our churches—one of the most amazing things that happened to me after Pulse happened, um—after we’re dealing with all the issues of the tragedy, I had come here to City Hall and Mayor [Teresa] Jacobs’s office called me. And I went running over there. And she—and it was a—it was a group of clergy. And they were having a press conference. And they were talking about, “We do not agree with the Baptist Church. [inaudible] wanna say their name. That’s coming here to demonstrate at the funerals of these victims.” They had never dealt with that. I’ve been dealing with that for, you know, 30 plus years. I understand what it’s like to deal with hateful people that carry signs that say, “God hates fags.” This was their first time of dealing with it. And our religious leaders came out and said, “This is not who we are.” I could not have been more proud. And felt so amazing during that time. That’s unity. Not telling me to shut up about who I am [<em>sighs</em>].</p>
<strong>Smith<br /></strong>Um, how were or are your familial relationships affected by your coming out?
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>]. When I first came out, I was 21. And like I said, I really, really struggled. And it wasn’t a matter of my parents supporting me. I had moved out at 17 because I was different and there were issues that I couldn’t deal with my parents. And, uh, so I basically started—I mean I started taking care of myself at 17. And so it wasn’t any reason for me to, you know—to—to hide who I was. Other than the fact that, um—I mean I—I wanted to have a relationship with my family. And I thought that that was gonna be part of it. And it—it got to be more and more pressure for me because my sisters were old enough to go out. And I said, “Oh. I was at Park Avenue Club or I was at this club over the weekend.” And they’re like, “Well, we didn’t see you. We were there.” And the lying just got to take such a toll on me.</p>
<p>And at 21, I finally came out. And [<em>laughs</em>] my mother’s Italian and Catholic. She said to me, “Well, we’re a family and we’re gonna stick together. But you have to understand you’ve chosen a very difficult lifestyle. And—and you can’t be a teacher now. You realize that.” ‘Cause I had wanted to be an art teacher. She goes, “You—you—you’ll be a bad influence to children.” I was like, <em>Wow.</em> You know? Although, the weird thing was I did change to—to journalism. Um, and I went back to art eventually.</p>
<p>Um, but I accepted that. And s—ashamed to s—I’m not ashamed. I mean that was a pressure that was put on me. And I accepted that. And I—and I hope that young people now realize they don’t have to accept that. You’re not a bad influence because you’re LGBTQ. You’re not a bad person because you’re LGBTQ. Um, there are lots of people in this community who’ve made a lot of great contributions now that were not swept under the rug and—and forced to keep—stay in the closet. So I’m proud of many contributions of—of my community.</p>
<p>Um, I was—it—we just watched—I just watched—I’m in the process—like I had recorded it because I couldn’t watch it. <em>When We Rise</em>.<a title="" href="#_ftn4">[4]</a> And I remember Cleve Jones. And I remember [inaudible]. I remember these people who—who paved the way for people like me. And I think it’s important to tell our history because we tend to forget it. And I think that’s why this project is so important. And why oral history projects are so important. Because the dominant culture does want to erase us. They do want to erase people in the movement. The Women’s Movement. They do want erase people in the African-American Civil Rights Movement. Um, because it makes them feel com—more comfortable who they are. Because they don’t want to accept the fact that they did things that were wrong. There’s a whole movement to erase the Holocaust. And the fact that it happened to the Jewish community. Because the dominant culture isn’t comfortable with dealing with the fact that this happened and some of them were complicit with it.</p>
<p>So I’m not about making people comfortable when they do the wrong thing. And if they blow back on me—this has always been a risk for me. When I was at the Florida Department of Agriculture and I stood up for people in my office because they were people of color or people of Jewish faith, I was—I was punished for it. As a—you know, I—I was denied management positions because of my s—because of standing up for others. I was up for—I finally was up for a promotion at work. And, um, I had gone to the March on Washington for LGBTQ rights in I think it was 1992.<a title="" href="#_ftn5">[5]</a> ‘Cause I went to—I went to a couple of them. There was one in the ‘80s and one in the ‘90s. And I can’t remember the exact date. But I’d gone to the—to the second march. And, um, I took—I took my vacation time. And I happened to be in the back of a photograph. I wasn’t even the—the focus of the photograph. I didn’t even know the person was taking it. I was basically getting out of a train to go to Washington[, D.C.]. And I was in the background. And someone took—took that picture out of the paper, faxed it to my division director in Tallahassee[, Florida] and made sure I got demoted. That was my life.</p>
<p>And when I called to complain, ‘cause I had actually helped the State of Florida deal with a lot of personnel issues. I was, you know, the person that they sent around to help deal with it—go—as part of my management training. They said, “We’re sorry, Patty. There’s nothing we can do to protect you. We can protect women. We can protect minorities. But we can’t protect you because your class isn’t protected.” So I’ve lived this. This has happened to me. And I think it’s important, you know—I’m not bitter. I mean I get better. I don’t get bitter, I get better. It was a hard thing to deal with at the time. And I was angry. But, um—but I had to find a way to persevere. And eventually, the manager that—the—the—the guy higher up that demoted me ended up getting in trouble for bad behavior at work [<em>laughs</em>]. And, uh, I had a new boss. And I came out to him. He goes, “Why—why are—why are people so reluctant to let me, eh, promote you?” I said, “Because I’m gay.” He said, “Well, that’s stupid.” I’m like, “Well, I know that.” He goes, “You have to understand that not everybody is as comfortable with your sexual orientation as you are.” I said, “It’s not my job to make them comfortable.” He said, “Touché.” And he promoted me. And I thought, <em>Wow. That’s really cool</em>.</p>
<p>So, you know, there are allies all along the way that you’re gonna find if you’re willing to stand up for who you are. And it wasn’t easy. Um, I’m—that day that I had to meet with that—with that manager, I was throwing up. I was so—so nervous. Um, when I first ran for office, I was so nervous whenever I had to talk because I was, you know—I was afraid of how it was gonna come up. And I was at a debate one time, um, gosh, at the Audubon Park Covenant Church. Because I was running for office and there was a bunch of us. And, uh, one of the—one of the people stood up and said—um, one of the candidates—one of the—the question, which was clearly aimed at me, was, “Should candidates make an issue of their sexual orientation?” And one of the candidates—candidates stood up and said, “Well, I have a wife. And I have a child. But I don’t think anybody should flaunt their lifestyle.” And I got up there and I said, “Well, it’s very interesting. ‘Cause when my opponent says about his life, it’s charming. When I talk about my life, it’s flaunting.” And a hundred and fif—fifty people in that church that were sitting there listening to that got it. And there were people that ran after me and apologized for that question.</p>
<p>So it’s not always easy to make change. And I lost that 1996 election. But I won the next one. So it is, you know—for me, and I think for our movement, it is incremental change. And it’s not easy. And it is something that you have to fight for. But it’s not something that I’m ever willing to—to lay down. And I won’t until the day I die. Um, and the day I die I will be laid at the feet of all the Pulse victims because that’s where I bought my cemetery plot in Greenwood [Cemetery]. I wanna watch over—I wanna watch over those kids forever. Because that’s been—that’s—that’s a part—that’s a part that’s interwoven in my soul. You know? That they were viciously attacked for who they were. And we need to keep telling that story. Because of people are already trying to—they call it “straight-wash” it. But, you know? It’s—it can’t be. We have to talk about how hatred killed them and how we have to be better people as a result of it to honor their memory [<em>sighs</em>]. Sorry [<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<strong>Smith<br /></strong>No. You’re good. Um, how did you come to obtain the Paul [Efthemios] Tsongas and Brian Arbogast [de Hubert-Miller] 1992 election i.d. tags?
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>What?</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>They’re in your collection.</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>[<em>sighs</em>] I can’t remember [<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>Oh. [<em>laughs</em>] That’s okay.</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>It’s Paul and—and Brian?</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Gosh. I—I don’t know. Really? Maybe they got stuck in there by accident. Because Brian was friend of mine. Um, he helped me with, um—with—he was one of the original founders of, um, what was then Orla—Orlando Regional Pride. And then I knew him. Um, uh, so that’s how I knew Brian Arbogast de Hubert-Miller. Um, and we used to call him “Alphabet Man” because he kept adding, you know—it’s part of his culture. [<em>laughs</em>] He was like, “You know, I’m—I’m Hispanic. So we have a lot of names.” And so he kept adding names. And we were—we laughed and called him “Alphabet Man”.</p>
<p>Um, I don’t know how Paul’s came into—to be in my collection. I don’t know. Um, uh, you know, I—eh, during the Names Project, we would—we—we, uh,—we were, uh, carrying names of people who had passed of—of HIV<a title="" href="#_ftn6">[6]</a> and AIDS.<a title="" href="#_ftn7">[7]</a> But those weren’t the names that I carried. ‘Cause—‘cause I don’t think either one of them—no. I can’t remem—I don’t think either one of them passed from AIDS.</p>
<p>Um, but, um, there—there was an i.d. tag though that I had that I carried that was, um, a—a, um—it was, uh, from LCN Express.<a title="" href="#_ftn8">[8]</a> And it had my name. And I had it made. Maybe that’s how the i.d. tag accidentally got in my collection. Because we all had—I had an i.d. tag made in case I was a victim of violence at the march that they would know who I was. So it had—it had my name, it had the LCN Express, was the affiliation of the group that I was with, and it had my address on it. It was basically dog tags in case anything happened to me. But that’s the only dog tag that I can recall that, uh—that I had from that time. That and—and one that was fabulous that had sequence on it. ‘Cause, you know, it had a rainbow on it. It was beautiful [<em>laughs</em>]. I am who I am [<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p>That’s crazy. I—you—that’s so funny. You know? I don’t know how those got in there.</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>Yeah. We had no idea either. We just kind of…</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Wow.</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>…figured we’d ask.</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Nope. I don’t know. Yeah. Okay. What else you got?</p>
<strong>Smith<br /></strong>Uh, what was Michael’s March? And what was your role within it?
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Michael’s March [<em>laughs</em>]? I have no idea [<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>That’s okay.</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Yeah.</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>It’s like a letter or something. And it’s—you have it titled “Michael’s March”.</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Oh. That’s from LCN. Okay. Um, back, um, in the ‘80s, there was a big division between men and women in the community. The—the LGBTQ and the gay community. And, um, after the men started getting sick, they were moving in with the lesbians. The lesbians were actually taking care of them. And LCN had kind of been an organization for women—was women’s only space. And a lot of the men were really offended by that. And I’m like, “Look. You guys call us ‘fish’ and you’re really mean to us. So you know? We—we have our own space. You know? That’s our thing.”</p>
<p>But when the—the men started getting sick, a lot of us start—you know? A lot of women started taking care of them. And—and—and everything. And the community really started coming together. So when we went to the March on Washington—and I—again, I can’t remember which one. It was Michael Wanzie’s letter I’m pretty sure [<em>sniffs</em>]. Um, that was Michael’s—that—I think that was Michael’s story, um, that he had submitted to LCN, um, about his partner dying. I think that’s the letter that you’re talking about. Um, and Lou Tozer and a bunch of the folks that were really involved with the LCN were very much touched by it. And wanted to include it in our newsletter even though we only allowed women to write for the newsletter. So that—think I’m remembering that right.</p>
<p>But I would get into it with Michael a little bit later because, you know—because they would—they—again, there were these issues about allowing women into the what they called at the time gay community services. And representing the rights of women. And it wasn’t easy with the gay men either sometimes. You know? And I mean they weren’t sensitive to women’s culture. And they weren’t sensitive to—to our issues. And I was glad over time that they added GLBCS. You know? Gay Lesbian Bisexual Community Services. And now, you know, we’ve added T<a title="" href="#_ftn9">[9]</a>. And we’ve—we’ve—we’ve been more inclusive. But that wasn’t easy. And there’s been many times when Michael and I tangled because, you know, we said, “Hey. You know? You gotta include women’s issues, too.”</p>
<p>So—but Michael’s March was about losing his, um—his partner. His reaction to the march, which was, um, very emotional. Um, and again, I’m trying to remember which year were—was the year the [NAMES Project] AIDS [Memorial] Quilt was unveiled. In ’87 or, gosh, ’90. I—I n—I need to do my research because I can’t remember when the marches exactly happened. But, uh, I—I can get back to you on that. But the first march, um, I believe was the one where they unveiled the AIDS Quilt. You’ll have to go back and look.</p>
<p>But that was the year that Whoopie Goldberg<a title="" href="#_ftn10">[10]</a> was the first person to walk out. And she was one of the first actors to actually take a stance on HIV and AIDS. And that was, uh, very emotional for a lot of us ‘cause we lost so many of our friends. I mean I’ve lost, eh—between the age of 20 and 30, I lost easily half my friends. Um, a lot of the entertainers. A lot of the—the drag queens were the first to go. Um, you know? All of a sudden, it’s—everyone started getting sick. They called it Gay-related Immune Deficiency. GRID. And all of us were t— completely panicked and freaked out. And by the time they finally had the test, of course, I took it. Because I was, you know—I was a bad girl. And I was going, <em>Man. Do I have it? </em>And I didn’t. You know? But lesbians had a—had a, you know, lower submission rate and everything like that.</p>
<p>Um, a lot of my friends were dying. Um, my closest friend that died was Gary Bailey. And he was my friend and rock. And I mean I just loved that man. And, um, you know, I just couldn’t believe he was sick. And then ended up passing away. And then there was Chuck [inaudible]. And it was just—it was a time when, um, we were going to funerals. Steve Marnier[?]. He was my political, um, mentor. I mean anytime I wanted to bounce something off Steve. And every time that I wanted to do something—he was like one of the few men that really got women’s culture and understood the need for everybody to work together and everything like that. So whenever I really wanted, uh, someone as a sounding board, I would go to Steve. When I ran in 1996, he had gotten really, really sick. And he ended up getting it really early. But he had taken care of himself, so he had it for a while. But in—in ’96, when I ran the first time, um, I had gone to visit him in the hospital and he asked me to pin one of my campaign pins on his—on his hospital robe. And, uh, he died like a couple days later. And, um, I’ll never forget that. So, you know, I mean I wasn’t there when he died, but I was there when gra—when Gary died.</p>
<p>And to watch someone pass away that you really care about, and they’re so young, and it’s so unnecessary, you just want the government to do something and to help. And there’s—n—no matter how much we marched, no matter how much we did, no matter—I mean I remember we had—the first time I stood on the AIDS Quilt, and it took up the entire mall. It was a football field of people who were dead. People we had lost. And, uh, the, uh—the amazing thing about the quilt was it actually—they—they designed it so that it was the size of a—of a funeral plot. You know? So you could really get a sense that these were people. It wasn’t like just a name written in a column or something like that. It was the physical size of a person.</p>
<p>And, uh, yeah—so I—I think—and—and a lot of that’s forgotten. Young people go, “Oh. What’s the big deal? What’s the—why do you guys get so upset? A—AIDS is—AIDS is survivable.” But there was a time when it wasn’t. And it wasn’t that long ago. And most of us who are a little older remember that. But that’s why we’re so passionate about making sure that, um [<em>sniffs</em>]—that people don’t forget that. Because it was a horrible time. And, um, you know, yeah. It’s become a chronic disease. But it’s not something I would wish on anyone. And I still have friends who are suffering. You know? And I still have friends who are dying. They just die from other opportunit—or oth—other opportunistic diseases. There are some people who are still in the closet about having HIV and AIDS. There are still people who are dying of AIDS. And, uh, uh, you know? Um, we gotta keep telling that story, too. But Michael’s March was about how he lost his partner. And, uh, yeah. It’s a very poignant story. It’s lovely. Even though Wanzie and I have had our issues over the years. Um, I thought that was absolutely a lovely story.</p>
<p>But, yeah. That’s when I was with LCN Express. That was a women’s newsletter. And I remember my friend, Joel[?] always saying to me, he’d go, “You are a separatist.” And I’m like, “You know? You have to remember though that we were women feminists. And we also had women’s culture. We—we had a double whammy. We were gay and we were lesbians. You know? We were—I mean we were—we were women. We were gay, but we were also women. We also had the—we also had to deal with the discrimination that came along with being women. And men telling us, “All you need is a good man.” And all that stuff. And the sexual harassment that I experienced as a young woman. And, you know, it—so we had to have the—a space where we could express that. Where we could kind of come to terms with that. Where we could be supported in community, too.</p>
<p>And, you know—and—and, uh, after the marches and after HIV and AIDS, we really kind of gelled as a community. But it was a process. So yeah. There was a while when I enjoyed women’s culture. And I kind of did the separatist thing. But I also evolved to realize that we all had to work together because if we didn’t, you know, we were—we were gonna die. And the guys were dying at alarming rates. And we all needed to come together to—to do what we could to stop AIDS. And, you know, to get education. And to get testing. You couldn’t even get—you couldn’t even get reasonable, affordable testing. Those all came as a result of fighting for that for many, many years [<em>phone rings</em>].</p>
<strong>Smith<br /></strong>Um, who was Charles S., [<em>phone rings</em>] whom you have memorial artifacts for?
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Is that Chase? Chase Smith?</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>Um, all we have is a Charles and then his last initial. S.</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>What do you got? I don’t know what you guys have. I need to go over there and check out what you’ve got [<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>[inaudible].</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>I mean it could be Chase. But…</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>I believe it is, um, rose pedals and a candle.</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Mm. I mean, um, that might have been from the last AIDS, um, uh, vigil that we had. And, um, Chase was the aid to—to May—a—Chase was my longtime aid for many, many years. And he was also an aide to Mayor [Teresa] Jacobs. And, um, he never disclosed his status to us until he was dying. And, um, I don’t think his family wanted anybody to know that he was HIV-positive. And this just happened a few years ago. I’m almost reluctant to—you know, to do it because, um—because he didn’t want anybody to know he was HIV-positive. And it killed him. He ended up getting, uh, lymphoma, which shouldn’t have killed him. But because his—he had just contracted it and his viral load was really high. It killed him like that.</p>
<p>And, um, you know, here—here’s someone who was openly gay, an aide to, you know, me and Mayor Jacobs, um, who wasn’t comfortable enough to ask for help. So that’s why I put Charles S. Because I didn’t want people to know who he was. Because I didn’t—wasn’t sure that [<em>sniffs</em>]—mm—that he would want that known. But you know? There he was. He never came to me. I wish he had come to me. I could’ve—I’d have go—I would have walked him right over to OIC<a title="" href="#_ftn11">[11]</a> to Doctor [Edwin] DeJesus. I’d have gotten the best care I could. But he didn’t feel comfortable telling me ‘cause he was ashamed. And, um, you know? Shame is a killer in my world. You know? I’ve seen it kill too many good people. We have to be—e—e—even though he knew. I mean he was an aid. He knew. All of these resources. He was too ashamed to take them up for himself.</p>
<p>So the rose pedals and the, uh, candle were Chase. And, um, I miss him. He’s the reason those are—those pink bunnies are all around—I put those pink bunnies all over town [<em>laughs</em>] [<em>sniffs</em>]. Um, because he loved playing the Easter Bunny for kids. He was just a lovely, helpful, decent man who, uh, had his secrets. And I remember when he was dying—and it happened really quick[sic]. Um, Mayor Jacobs came to me and she goes, “Is he HIV-positive?” I’m like, “I don’t know. He didn’t disclose to me.” And I—that’s—I still struggle with that. I mean, you know? He really didn’t—he didn’t tell me until he was on his deathbed. But, um, yeah. That’s my boy, Chase. So, yeah. I’m—I’m actually delighted that’s part of my collection [<em>clears throat</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>Good.</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Yeah [<em>sniffs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>Um, what type of problems...</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>I can’t believe you got—where’d you guys get this stuff? I mean what do you guys go around following me? This is weird [<em>laughs</em>]. I’m kind of freaking out a little bit [<em>laughs</em>]. I’m like—I need to like—I need to like say, “Here [<em>laughs</em>]…” That’s interesting.</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>I think it was, uh, donated in 2002. If that helps at all.</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>[<em>sighs</em>]. He didn’t die that—wait a minute. No. That couldn’t have been because he didn’t die then.</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>Huh.</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>I need to get—I need to get together with you guys and make sure this stuff is in the proper s—sequences and stuff. Because this is just kind of a little strange. Yeah. Because that’s the only Charles S. I could think of would be Chase. And the—and the rose pedal and the candle would have been from the AIDS—but that wouldn’t have been from that long ago. So we may—might need to go over and make sure that everything’s in the proper sequence and stuff like that. Yeah.</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>Okay.</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>I’ll—I’ll—I’ll sit down with you. ‘Cause I want to make sure it’s right. ‘Cause it—‘cause you know as it happens some type of historical stuff. You know? It—it’s not quite in the right slot and everything like that. So I’ll—I’ll…</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>Yeah.</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>…go over it with you. Yeah.</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>Well, thank you.</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Yeah. I’ll—I’d be glad to do that. ‘Cause it shouldn’t have been from 2002. Gosh. He didn’t even die until [<em>sighs</em>]—I think he’s been dead since 2013 or something. 2—2012 I think he died. Yeah. Yeah.</p>
<strong>Smith<br /></strong>Um, what type of problems and discrimination, if any, ha—did you face during the 2000 and later elections?
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Uh, ’96 was the hard one. ’96 was the one where, um, half the candidates running were gay. I was the only one who was out and open about it. Um, one of the candidates used my sexual orientation against me everywhere she went. And then she ended up going to the runoff. And then she ended up getting defeated because they actually put, um, flyers in—as an insert in all the <em>Orlando Sentinels</em> and all the, um, mailbox—and all the, uh, boxes. And said that Patty Sheehan lost ‘cause she’s a lesbian. And this other woman needs to lose ‘cause she’s a lesbian, too. She was—that’s how she got outed. And where they didn’t s—insert them into the papers and all the mailboxes and all the paper boxes downtown, they threw ‘em all in the intersections in these little bags. Outing this other person. And, um, she came to me and says, “What do I do?” And I’m like, “Well, you know, you used it against me. That’s kind of karma [<em>laughs</em>]. You know? But what you’ve gotta say is discrimination is wrong and that you’re willing to stand up for other people.” And that didn’t happen. It just became an ugly food fight.</p>
<p>And that’s the thing. When someone attacks you, it’s the first response to get angry. But that’s what they want. They want you to get angry and frothing at the mouth and looking crazy. And what I’ve learned is I have to, you know, take a step back and take a deep breath and think before I speak, which isn’t always easy sometimes. Sometimes I still get my hackles up. Usually, that’s when I get in trouble. Um, um, because you—you’re—you’re not just speaking for yourself. You’re speaking on behalf of a community, whether you like it or not. And, um—and it’s important to do that in a way that educates and not what I—what I always call “teachable moments”.</p>
<p>So in ’96, I lost. And I said, “Well, you know what? I only lo—I only lost that election—I only missed that runoff by like 75 votes.” And I threw that l—I threw that together with my friends in like 90 days. I said, “What if I actually worked hard and learned the issues a little bit better that people were criticizing me that I didn’t know about? And what if I really applied myself?” So for the next four years, I got all involved in—in—in city business. And got to know about the codes. And came to—to be president of my neighborhood association. Talking about things like duplexes and, you know, sidewalks. And all those things that were really impacting the neighborhoods. And got to know the other neighborhood leaders. And I ran in 2000 and I beat the incumbent. And I won. So it can be done. And I wasn’t just—even though the newspaper in 1996—they had a huge headline on Election Day, “Gay Candidate Race on Ballot”. Um, yeah. They just ma—they all—they made it all about me being gay. They didn’t make it about any of my other stances on anything. Why I was really running, which was historic preservation, and saving neighborhoods and those kinds of things. Because there was all these teardowns happening. Making better quality of life in our neighborhoods. Business. Those were the things that I ran on. But all they wanted to talk about was me being gay.</p>
<p>And then I said, “Okay. All these people now know me. And they know I care about these issues. And I’ve known them from their neighborhoods and all that. Let’s see how this works out.” And it worked out very well for me. I won. And I’ve won every election since. And I’ve been through redistricting. And every time I go through redistricting, my colleagues try to put me in a more conservative area, thinking they’re gonna get—I’m gonna get beaten. And I just get higher and higher, you know, percentages [<em>laughs</em>]. So you know? I’m kind of the middle kid. I get picked on. I’ve represented more of this city than any other commissioner ‘cause they keep moving me around, hoping to get rid of me. And the bottom line is I’m not going anywhere. I’m, you know—I serve at the pleasure of my constituents. They’re my boss. And, uh, you know, I try to do the best job I can for them.</p>
<p>And I think it’s important to be an advocate for LGBTQ issues, but I also have to balance that with, “Yes. I care about your issues, too.” But what really offends me is when people say, “Well, you’re gay so you can’t represent me.” That’s not fair. And that’s not true. Um, I think being an a—being an LGBTQ activist has made me a better commissioner because I’m not afraid to fight for what I believe is right. Regard—if that—regardless if that’s sidewalks or if that’s historic preservation. Or if it’s proper infill development. Or if it’s for fighting for small businesses. I—I—I bring that passion to all those aspects of my job. And I think that makes me a better commissioner now—[inaudible] commissioner.</p>
<p>So, um, yeah. I think that’s—I think that’s an important point to make. ‘Cause I think a lot of people who are in the LGBTQ community who run for public office are marginalized that way. And it’s something that you have to be able to overcome.</p>
<strong>Smith<br /></strong>How have you used your position as city commissioner to conc—to continue civil rights activism?
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>sniffs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Yeah. Uh, when I was with the, um—I was really involved with the Democratic Party many, many years ago and they asked me to be constituency outreach. And it wasn’t easy ‘cause people were angry. I mean like they—go deal with—they’ll go deal with the—the—the—the different caucuses. And then—and—and sit down and, you know, figure out what—what—what are their needs and stuff like that. And people were really angry. And the thing was they hadn’t been asked.</p>
<p>So I go in there. I’m this little white girl. You know [<em>laughs</em>]? And, “What do you know about struggle?” This and that. You know? And I’m—everyone I went to I [<em>sniff</em>s]—I was with the African-American caucus and they were—they’re just—and I just said, “Okay. I’m just gonna listen. I’m just gonna sit here and listen to what everybody’s, you know, issues are.” And I sat there. And one of the—one of the gentlemen who was—M—Mr. Armistead[?], who I still know, said, “You hung in there.” He goes, “You just hung in there. And you listened to us.” He goes, “And you know what? That’s important. ‘Cause nobody listens to us.” Like wow. It’s like, “I can’t promise anything. But it—but it’s important to listen.” And I never—I never forgot that. Because for him to tell me, “Nobody has ever listened to me.” This is an African-American lawyer. Pretty prominent in his community. To tell me that no one had ever bothered to listen to him, that’s—that broke my heart.</p>
<p>Um, and so I think it’s important, y—you know? I can’t promise I’m gonna fix everybody’s issues like that. You know? Nobody can promise that. Because a—again, any kind of civil rights movement, you have t—it’s incremental change. Because the—the majority’s not gonna just give it to you. You know? The don—they don’t—they don’t say, “Oh. Eh, gay and lesbian community, you want civil rights? African-American community, you want civil rights? Jewish community, you don’t wanna be discriminated against? Oh, we’ll just do this ‘cause it’s the right thing.” It doesn’t happen that way. You know? You have to educate and you have to fight for it.</p>
<p>Um, but it’s been a—it’s been an honor to be trusted by people. And with their feelings. And with their concerns. And with their problems. And, um, if you look at it that way, um, that it’s a chance to—to bridge that divide and—and help them, that’s how I look at it. And, you know, I deal with angry people all day long. And I say, “Even a broken clock is right twice a day.” You know? Everybody’s got their—everybody has something to offer. Everybody has something to give you. Um, sometimes people are just mean. I don’t know. I mean I don’t take on everybody who wants to call me a[sic] epithet or curse at me or anything like that. I mean that’s—it—I think there’s a level of civil discourse that’s—that’s very uncivil, especially with social media “keyboard courage” I call it, that really unfortunate. But, uh—but I think overall, if you, um—if you listen and try to—to—to understand—and listen not to respond, but listen to understand, um, you’ll—you’ll—much better advocate and—and public servant. That’s just how I’ve applied it.</p>
<p>But I mean I’ve had, you know, the Hispanic community, the African-American community, I just haven’t just dealt with the LGBTQ community, you know, over the years. And, um—and there—and there are specific needs. And there have been specific needs specifically from Pulse. I mean the QLatinx, these young Latin-American, you know, young people. Many of whom—you know, some of—some of the families didn’t claim their kids ‘cause they found out they were gay that way. I mean the—what else—what other community’s experienced that?</p>
<p>So there are things that we need to help people with. Um, and we need to be sensitive, too. And I think a community—the community came together really well. I was very proud of how the city—the Camping World Stadium—deal with the immigration issues. I mean a lot of families weren’t even—you know, they had to come here to bury their kids. What a horrible thing. That the way this community—and it’s amazing how well this community came together to help everybody. But that doesn’t mean that we, um, brush aside their concerns as minority community.</p>
<strong>Smith<br /></strong>How have you aided in developing marriage equality?
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>]. You know, um, eh, when—at first when they were talking about marriage equality, I’m like, “I’m not you’re girl.” You know [<em>laughs</em>]? I hadn’t had a relationship in a long time. You know? ‘Cause we were—g—gosh, we had been fighting for marriage equality forever. And—and—and, you know, in the—in the—in the, uh, early 2000s, everybody’s like, “We want you to take this one.” I was, “This really isn’t my thing. You know? I’m a lesbian. I think I got workplace equality. All those things are important to me.” But I hadn’t really been in a long-term relationship. But then I got in a long-term relationship and I realized why those things were important. Because, you know, I went to go get—you know, I went to—to—to deal with, um, um, you know, leaving—leaving my things to my p—my partner in case then—my health had gotten really bad. What if—what if I—what if something happens to me? Um, you know? How do I take care of her?</p>
<p>And all those issues that it—marriage conveys 1,500 rights that, you know—‘cause straight people think about, <em>This is a right for me. This is something for me. Gay people shouldn’t have the right to the wedding cake. </em>And all those things. That’s a straight thing. Well, we had the right to the wedding cake. We had the right to the church ceremony. But what we didn’t have access to was the contractual arrangement. So I had to educate myself about it so that I could then communicate it. And I think w—w—and I’m a—I was a member at the time of a lot of the national LGBTQ organizations that said, “You know what? We don’t talk about…” I said, “I don’t care if they call it ‘domestic partnership’ or call it ‘Fred’. But what we need to explain to people is the difference between the wedding cake and the contract.” And so every time I had the chance to talk about it, I said, “There are 1,500 rights that convey with marriage that go—that—that—that we should be able to have access to as a contractual relationship to—to be able to partner with someone.</p>
<p>And then other people in the, you know—other—my—my colleagues said, “Yeah. You know? That’s a really well—that’s a really good way to communicate that.” So then we all started—elected officials, we all started talking from that same page. And, you know, we would all get together and fight about how we were gonna do it. ‘Cause, you know, it’s—it’s difficult. I’m from Florida. You know, and—and they’re from San Francisco[, California]. They’re talking about medical marijuana. And they’re so cool. And everyone’s more accepting. I mean, I was like, “Okay. I’m not a canary in the coalmine. And in Orlando, you know, if we can figure out how to communicate it, this should help you guys, too [<em>laughs</em>].”</p>
<p>So after a while, we started talking about the rights that convey with marriage. And it—and it was right from the HRC<a title="" href="#_ftn12">[12]</a> website. It wasn’t like it was hidden. But nobody was talking about it. So once we started talking about that from that standpoint, the weird thing for me was I started seeing people go, “Oh. Wait a minute. That’s not fair.” So sometimes we have to remember this. Because we understand something doesn’t necessarily mean that somebody else understands something. And it became an educational process. And I think that all the LGBTQ groups did a better job of—of communicating that fact. The—the proper, um, court cases came forward. I mean the Windsor case<a title="" href="#_ftn13">[13]</a> was just—was beyond. Because that was a clear case of someone being denied access to her partner’s, you know, um, uh, what they had built together in their life. When her partner died, that was a clear case. And, you know, here’s this—here’s all of us gay rights activists who have, you know—fighting, fighting, fighting. And here’s little Edie Windsor<a title="" href="#_ftn14">[14]</a>, you know, winning this historic court case that brought that all come on tumbling down, which was phenomenal. And she’s a hero. You know? She just wanted to fight for what she thought was right.</p>
<p>And—and—and I—and something that I tell people that I think the majority of the community doesn’t understand is minority rights have never been conveyed by the majority, except for Ireland. Ireland did it for—for LGBTQ rights. They actually had a referendum and extended marriage equality, too. That there—that’s the only place that had—did not happen in the courts. Usually min—the majority does not vote to give minorities any kind of rights. And so that’s what I tell people. I’m like, “The m—the—the majority feels they’re gonna lose something ridiculously if they—if they—if they look after minorities, unfortunately. Um, so it’s—it should never be up to a referendum. Minority rights should never be up for a referendum. Because they’re—I—they are a minority. You know, you can’t get enough votes out of a mi—minority. But—and that’s why the Constitution talks about the tyranny of the majority. That’s the actual quote about the tyranny of the majority. And have—and having rights for everyone. And having the courts. And having these balances.</p>
<p>So, uh, you know—I mean I think it’s important to understand that. And I was glad to be a part of it. Uh, I was—my partner and I were the first domestic partnership. Unfortunately, it broke up shortly thereafter. I was horribly embarrassed ‘cause I never would have put my—my relationship as—as domestic partnership number—number one, had I known it wasn’t going to last that long. I wasn’t on the way out. She was. But, you know, it—it happens. It happens. For divorce happens. And people break up. And, you know—but I felt this tremendous, “Ah.” You know? Pressure to be perfect. And, <em>Oh, my God. How could this happen?</em> I was so horrified. And I was already heartbroken.</p>
<p>But, you know, I—and I remember when the report—one of the—one of the reporters found out. I’m like, “I’m just gonna get beaten up so bad, you guys.” “And I ain’t got—I went through a divorce, too. I’m so sorry.” I thought, <em>Wow. I’m actually getting treated like everybody else. Isn’t that nice?</em> It was the first time I really felt like somebody had been fair to me. Was [<em>laughs</em>] dealing with my div—it wasn’t even really a divorce. It was by domestic partnership being—and I had—I went and dissolved it. Yeah. It’s hard—it was hard. ‘Cause I—it wasn’t my choice. But lots of people get left. And lots of people get heartbroken. And it’s part of life. You know? Half of marriages end in divorce. But that doesn’t mean that the LGBTQ community doesn’t b—deserve the same rights and equality or, as some of my friends say, “That’s the same—that’s the same right to be miserable as everyone else [<em>laughs</em>].” You know?</p>
<p>But there are some couples that I know that have been together 40—I mean there was a couple that had been together 41 years that got married here on the steps of City Hall. And that was an incredible day. For the mayor [John Hugh “Buddy” Dyer] to have the ceremony. And he’s actually a notary public. He did the—he did the ceremony. And I did a reading. And it was just really lovely to be there. You know? And—and to experience that. And it—and it was a little bittersweet to me because I wasn’t in a relationship. But, um—but, you know, s—it was great for me to see my friends who’d been together 28 years and 20 years. And Bill [Stevens] and Bob [Brings]. My, uh—my assistant got married that day. Um, and they were actually—what a lot of people don’t realize, there was a backcourt case, um, at—at the—at—at Orange County. Um, they had asked for a marriage license. And they were trying to get the clerk to deny them. And they were gonna do—they were gonna fight it in court, but it ended up being that the case came down. And they didn’t up—not ended up having to do it. But, uh—but Bill and Bob were one of those plaintiffs ready to—you know, ready to take on that case if they had needed to.</p>
<strong>Smith<br /></strong>Could you tell us a little about some of your favorite accomplishments as commissioner between 2000 and 2015?
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Um, yeah. I mean getting to work on the Lake Eola fountain. That was really cool. I mean I kind of got criticized because, uh, “Why are you spending all this money for this engineering study?” You know? ‘Cause it’s—it’s a one-of-a-kind thing. I love neat, cool, original stuff. And I like the fact that it looks like a big old Jell-O mold [<em>laughs</em>]. But it was broken down. It wasn’t working. It was dreadful. And the m—most fortuitous lightning strike I think in American history after we had done the study to figure out what it would take to fix it. And they were able to put LED lights. It’s a lot more efficient. And, you know, it’s the icon of our city. It’s beautiful. And it was—wasn’t working for almost two years. And I think that that was—I—I—when you have something like that it has to work. It has to. It got—municipal government. You can’t just say, “Okay. Well, here’s our—here’s our icon. And we’re gonna let—leave the lights off or leave the fountain off.” We couldn’t do that. And—and I think it’s a s—I think it shows that it works. It’s beautiful. It dances [<em>laughs</em>]. It’s—it’s computerized now. It does all these cool things. We have shows that we run to it. That was really neat to get to work on. That was really a lot of fun.</p>
<p>Um, painting the [Lake Eola] Bandshell. Working with Walt Disney World, uh, to paint the bandshell in the rainbow after Pulse was just so meaningful. And I—I—it was a very symbolic and beautiful thing. And I didn’t even reali—you know, it—what I first, eh—it never occurred to me to paint it as a rainbow before. And then, uh, I actually a—a—a, uh—a person who just lives in the community. A mom who lost her son to suicide. He wasn’t gay. He killed himself—she says, “You know what? I feel an affinity to these parents—parents who have lost their child.” And she’s an artist. And she says, “Look what you could do. Painting this bandshell in rainbow.” And I didn’t realize there were exactly six ribs in the bandshell for the rainbow colors. And, um—and then Walt Disney World came and painted that. And it just—is—it—it makes such a stunning statement. And it’s such a beautiful testament to remembering the—the 49 fallen of Pulse. That was just—that was really cool to work on.</p>
<p>Um, sidewalks. I’m really proud that we can—that we—that we have sidewalks within miles of our el—elementary school. I mean I remember when we used to open up the paper on the first day school and a half dozen kids were getting killed in the ‘90s. The late ‘90s to 2000s. You don’t—you don’t do—you don’t read that any more. We’ve become much more aware of pedestrian safety for children. And children aren’t getting killed walking to school on the first day of s—of school. I’m proud of that. When I was in second grade, one of my best friends got killed walking to school. Again, there was a lot of people says[sic], “Why are you doing this?” Or, “Why can’t we vote?” And I said, “Okay. If there’s 10 people that live on a street and two have children, do the two people that have children get outvoted by the other eight? And we don’t put sidewalks in for children? Really? Is that how that works?” Again, that tyranny of the majority.</p>
<p>And I had to stand up for sidewalks. I got death threats [<em>laughs</em>]. They had to park a police car in front of my house for 24 hours ‘cause the death threats got so bad. The Audubon Park people. Um, it is what it is. People take very crazy stances sometimes. You know? And you gotta fight for what you believe in. And I honestly—how am I gonna change my mind, you know, that—when I lost someone as a child. And I’m an adult. And I’m a decision-maker. And I get to make a—and I get to make a difference. Do I just roll over? And the crazy thing was that gave me the political courage to say, “Okay. I really believe in this. I’m gonna fight for it. Even if I don’t ever get reelected.” “You are never gonna get reelected again.” I’m like, “Okay. Well, I guess I’ll have to do that then. Because I believe that this an important leadership thing. Tha—this is an important leadership stance I need to take.</p>
<p>Of course I got reelected the next time. ‘Cause people—people always say, “We’re gonna—we’re gonna make sure you never get reelected. And if you are always constantly worried about getting reelected, you will never get anything accomplished. Because there’s always a—there’s always people on two sides of an issue. Always. You have to pick a side or you’re schizophrenic. You cannot bend to please everyone. Is there a—there is even—I wanted to take the trash—I wanted to clean up the trash on Mills [Avenue] and I had someone that was opposed to the—that. How could anybody opp—[<em>laughs</em>] you know? “We don’t like going to these new garbage cans.” Well, that’s ridiculous. But there’s always gonna be somebody against that. And you—you can’t just bend or you’re gonna be completely ineffective. So I’ve decided, you know, I’m gonna fight for what I believe in. And—and I think I’ve been pretty good at it.</p>
<p>And the Main Street Districts are always—also something I’m really, really, really proud of. I mean we had all these great little areas that were so cool. I [inaudible] in Ivanhoe. And we did the—the, uh—they call it “Jingle Eve” now. But these[sic] big Christmas thing that we did. I’m like, <em>Why can’t we do special events to bring these folks together? </em>Which had morphed into our Main Street program. And I’m very proud of that program. I mean whenever we get written up in national newspapers and travel magazines now, it’s usually our Main Streets. And I’m proud to have been a huge supporter of that program. And I love what they’re doing.</p>
<p>And I—I—I—again—and public art. I mean we were—we were acting like public art was some kind of problem instead of something to be celebrated. And you—then when—when, um, Orlando City [SC] wanted to do murals all over the city to commemorate their news[sic], um—their new team, they said, “Well, you have to—you have to erase them.” You—we’re gonna [inaudible] tempor—I’m like, “Why would I want to do this temporarily? We have all this great art. Why can’t we find a way to legalize art?” So I worked on it—I worked on the orders with the planning staff. And now we’ve got art. But you have to go through a process. You have to get a permit. And it has—that’s what differentiate—differentiates you from the graffiti. So I—I was really proud to do that. I’m an artist. I love that kind of stuff.</p>
<p>So, you know, you get to work on really cool things. I mean I’ve been here long enough to where I’ve gotten to do some really cool stuff over the years. And, uh, they’re things I love. And urban—everything from urban chickens, which was a lot of fun, you know? Slow food movement. Um, these are trends. I mean I go to—when I go to a city, I see what are[sic] they doing. What are the kind of cool, f—fun, funky things that they’re doing? And how can we bring ‘em here to Orlando? And urban chickens was one of ‘em. I mean, you know? Backyard chickens. People love that. You know? And I’ve had a great time doing it. And people say that, “My—my kids love having our chickens and going and getting the eggs.” And I love that it teaches kids that food doesn’t come from a grocery store. And it’s important to treat animals humanely. And there’s always lessons that come out of that.</p>
<p>So it’s—it’s—it’s—it’s—need to be a—able to a part of, you know—of making that change in people’s lives. And it was something that people asked me to do. Um, so, and you know—I mean I’ve worked with everything from the Asian-American community, um, because they felt they were invisible and they wanted to be more involved in what was happening. And they’ve been really embraced by Mills 50 [District]. And they do the Asian Winter New Year, which is one of the coolest cultural festivals I think that we have. Um, it’s—it’s empowering people to be able to connect and do those things together. That’s the—that’s the neat part of the job.</p>
<p>The awful part of the job is when, you know, people are just mean and hateful and say [inaudible]—they just want to suck the soul out of you and just write mean things to you in an email. And I’ll still help him. I don’t take on their anger and their meanness. But I’ll still—you know, like I say, “A broke[sic] clock is even work twice—is right twice a day.” But that’s the stuff that hurts. You know? I’m a human being. People forget that elected officials are people. And, you know, I have people write horrible things about me. But if it’s really, really nasty and it’s so unfair, I don’t even respond. Because I don’t want to dignify it with a denial. It’s not that I accept their opinion of me. It’s that some people—some things are just so bad that you have to—I learned a long time ago that sometimes allowing someone to scream an epithet at me in an empty room and walking away is a lot more impactful than screaming back at them. ‘Cause I’ve had that happen where someone called me the f-word, even though I’m not—I’m not a faggot. I’m a dyke [<em>laughs</em>]. I’ve had someone call me that word. And I just walked away and I let it resonate. And, uh, sometimes that means more to people than shouting back [<em>phone rings</em>]. And, you know, sometimes you gotta know when to walk away. I—believe me, I’m a fighter. But I’m not going to stoop to the level to rise to the occasion. I’m not gonna be like him.</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>Well, is there anything else that you would like to, um, say or talk about that we haven’t talked about?</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>No. I just need to go to the collection to make sure you [<em>laughs</em>] guys have got the proper stuff. ‘Cause some of this stuff, I don’t even know what it is [<em>laughs</em>]. So—and I wanna make sure that we’ve got it categorized properly. Yeah. I think I need to do that ‘cause, you know—I mean, uh, ‘cause I had a really—I don’t think I’ve really donated to you guys. I think you probably got it from friends of friends. Or maybe through LCN or something like that. And I—and, you know, like I say, L—LCN was Love and Committed Network. That was the women’s group. And, you know, different things like that. So I just need to make sure we got the right, you know—we’re good—we’ve got the right stuff.</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>Alright. Well, thank you.</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Sure. Thank you. Thanks for coming over. I appreciate it.</p>
<p><strong>Smith<br /></strong>Of course.</p>
<p><strong>Sheehan<br /></strong>Awesome.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>Alright.</p>
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<p><a title="" href="#_ftnref1">[1]</a> University of Central Florida</p>
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<p><a title="" href="#_ftnref2">[2]</a> Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender</p>
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<p><a title="" href="#_ftnref3">[3]</a> Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Questioning (or Queer)</p>
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<p><a title="" href="#_ftnref4">[4]</a> American docudrama miniseries about LGBT rights, created by Dustin Lance Black. The series originally aired from February 7, 2017 – March 3, 2017.</p>
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<p><a title="" href="#_ftnref5">[5]</a> The March on Washington for Lesbian, Gay and Bi Equal Rights and Liberation took place on April 25, 1993.</p>
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<p><a title="" href="#_ftnref6">[6]</a> Human Immunodeficiency Virus</p>
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<p><a title="" href="#_ftnref7">[7]</a> Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome</p>
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<p><a title="" href="#_ftnref8">[8]</a> Loving – Commitment – Networking. “A Women’s Organization”</p>
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<p><a title="" href="#_ftnref9">[9]</a> Transgender</p>
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<p><a title="" href="#_ftnref10">[10]</a> Caryn Elaine Johnson (November 13, 1955 - )</p>
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<p><a title="" href="#_ftnref11">[11]</a> Orlando Immunology Center</p>
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<p><a title="" href="#_ftnref12">[12]</a> Human Rights Campaign</p>
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<p><a title="" href="#_ftnref13">[13]</a> United States v. Windsor, 570 U.S.__(2013)</p>
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<p><a title="" href="#_ftnref14">[14]</a> Edith “Edie” Windsor (June 20, 1929 – present)</p>
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Click to View (Movie, Podcast, or Website)
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hLfxgFOd1UA" target="_blank">Oral History of Patty Sheehan</a>
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
activism
activists
African-American caucus
AIDS
Asian Winter New Year
Asian-American community
Audubon Park Covenant Church
Bill Stevens
Bob Brings
Brian Arbogast de Hubert-Miller
Caryn Elaine Johnson
Charles "Chase" Smith
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-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/610d0f71d9ae86ec910191da1dc0d791.pdf
4e8a3ae76d64c76c3f5fa1c259e465e1
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Orlando Gay Chorus Collection
Alternative Title
Gay Chorus Collection
Is Part Of
Orlando Gay Chorus Collection, RICHES Program
Type
Collection
Digital Collection
<div class="element-text"><a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a></div>
<div class="element-text"> </div>
Subject
Orlando (Fla.)
Music--Florida
Dance--United States
Gay culture--United States
Description
The Orlando Gay Chorus (OGC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts and humanitarian organization, and part of the Gay and Lesbian Association (GALA) of Choruses. Founded on Valentines Day 1990, OGC is not only one of the largest mixed gay choirs in the United States at over 100 members, but they also boast four smaller ensembles that perform annual concerts, cabarets, and a host of community events, such as Come Out With Pride, Orlando Museum of Art’s Festival of Trees, and World AIDS Day memorial services. In 2017, the group performed at over 105 events, including 15 performances for the first anniversary of the Pulse Nightclub tragedy. Members come from all walks of life and all sexual and gender orientations, including straight allies. OGC lives by the motto “Singing the World to a Better Place” and strives to use music to change attitudes and build a stronger community.
Oral History
A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Oral History of Patrick Herman
Alternative Title
Oral History, Patrick Herman
Subject
Orlando (Fla.)
Music--Florida
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Gay culture--United States
Description
An oral history interview of Patrick Herman, a member of the Orlando Gay Chorus. The interview was conducted by Sarah Schneider at Herman’s home in Orlando, Florida, on November 4th, 2016. Some of the topics covered include moving to Florida, joining the Orlando Gay Chorus, the Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses (GALA) Festival, the mass shooting at Pulse nightclub and its aftermath, the Orlando Gay Chorus’s response to the Pulse tragedy, coping with the emotional repercussions of the tragedy, the community response to the Pulse tragedy, support from other gay choruses at the GALA festival, the significance of Latin night at Pulse, the long-term consequences of the Pulse tragedy, and gun control.
Table Of Contents
<br />0:00:00 Moving to Florida <br />0:02:27 Joining the Orlando Gay Chorus <br />0:05:02 Gay and Lesbian Association (GALA) of Choruses Festival <br />0:09:52 Mass shooting at Pulse nightclub <br />0:14:13 Orlando Gay Chorus’s response to Pulse tragedy <br />0:23:43 Coping with emotional repercussions of Pulse tragedy <br />0:26:44 Community response to Pulse tragedy <br />0:30:02 Support from other gay choruses at GALA festival <br />0:34:39 Significance of Latin night at Pulse <br />0:36:56 Long-term consequences of Pulse tragedy <br />0:40:20 Closing remarks
Abstract
Oral history interview of Patrick Herman. Interview conducted by Sarah Schneider in Orlando, Florida, on November 4, 2016.
Type
Moving Image
Source
Herman, Patrick. Interviewed by Sarah Schneider, November 4, 2016. Audio record available. <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, Orlando, Florida.
Requires
Multimedia software, such as <a href="http://www.apple.com/quicktime/download/" target="_blank"> QuickTime</a>.
<a href="http://www.adobe.com/products/reader.html" target="_blank">Adobe Acrobat Reader</a>
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/206" target="_blank">Orlando Gay Chorus Collection</a>, LGBTQ+ Collection, RICHES of Central Florida.
Has Format
Digital transcript of original 43-minute, and 53-second oral history: Herman, Patrick. Interviewed by Sarah Schneider. Audio record available. <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, Orlando, Florida.
Coverage
GALA Choruses Festival, Denver Performing Arts Center, Denver, Colorado
Orlando, Florida
Camping World Stadium, Orlando, Florida
Pulse nightclub, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Herman, Patrick
Schneider, Sarah
Publisher
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-11-04
Date Copyrighted
2016-11-04
Format
video/mp4
application/pdf
Extent
1.26 GB
Medium
43-minute and 53-second audio recording
18-page digital transcript
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Music Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Patrick Herman and Sarah Schneider and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Ahlquist, Karen. <a href="http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/62281651" target="_blank"><em>Chorus and Community</em></a>. Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 2006.
Boedeker, Hal. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/features/os-orlando-gay-chorus-25-years-20150611-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando Gay Chorus marks 25 years</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, October 18, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/features/os-orlando-gay-chorus-25-years-20150611-story.html.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Hyman, Jamie. "<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/2016/06/16/community-rises-mass-shooting-orlando-gay-nightclub-kills-49/" target="_blank">Community rises up after mass shooting at Orlando gay nightclub kills 49</a>." <em>Watermark</em>, June 16, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.watermarkonline.com/2016/06/16/community-rises-mass-shooting-orlando-gay-nightclub-kills-49/.
Transcript
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Today is Friday, November 14<sup>th</sup>, 2016. My name is Sarah Schneider and I am conducting an oral history interview with Patrick Herman of the Orlando Gay Chorus. The interview is being conducted at the interviewee’s residence in Orlando, Florida. Thank you for being here and talking with us today.</p>
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>Um, you’re welcome.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, can you please state your name for us?</p>
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>Um, um, my name is Patrick Herman. Um, and like you said, I—I, uh, sing for—with the, uh, Orlando Gay Chorus. And have been doing it for six years. And, um—and it’s just a really great experience. Uh, it’s probably one of the—yeah, I look forward to it every week. Just rehearsals and the shows. So, you know, it’s really all about singing I think mostly. It’s really why I joined. I think that’s why most people joined. So…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>And so can you tell us where you were born and how long you’ve lived in Orlando?</p>
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>Oh, uh. Well, um, I go way back. I’m, you know—this year I’ll be 60. So, uh, I was born actually in, um [<em>clears throat</em>]—in Washington, D.C. You know? I was, uh, one of s—six children. You know? I have six si—siblings. But I was the third of the six. And—and we lived in, uh, you know, uh—in Washington, D.C. My dad was in the army. And so, uh, it was one of the many places we lived. Uh, because he was in the service, we traveled a lot. So—so before I, um—before I graduated from college, um, I had traveled, uh, to numerous places and lived in many states.</p>
<p>So, um, how I ended up in Orlando was, um, that I did have family in Florida. And when I graduated from, uh, Penn State<a title="" href="#_ftn1">[1]</a>, um, you know, I decided I would live—you know, move to where I had family in Florida, which was, uh, uh, near Tampa. Which—New Port Richey. So, um—so—and then, um, it wasn’t—then I actually, uh—when I was there, I actually, uh, got a job and went back to school. And then got another degree. And ended up in, uh, Fort Lauderdale. And moved there for about twenty-some years. And then needed a change. So Orlando was the, you know—the ne—it was a—it had a job offer and I took it. So that was 12 years ago.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>And, um, how long have you been part of the Orlando Gay Chorus?
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>Um, well, I—I joined probably about six years ago. Um, you know, looking for something to do that I’ve done before. When I was in, uh, Fort Lauderdale, I was also in a chorus there, too. The Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus. And, um—and I enjoyed that a lot. You know? Something about, you know, being a part of a group and—and, um, singing, which, you know, i—I think, uh, that, you know, just that experience alone is, uh, an amazing, great experience for anybody.</p>
<p>You—and so when I moved here, you know, I—I, uh—I eventually looked up doing, uh, the chorus here as well. The only difference is—is this is a mixed chorus, where the one in Fort Lauderdale that I had experience with was, you know, an all-male chorus. So—but it’s been great. Just, uh, getting to know all the people.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>And can you tell us about one of your favorite—or some of your favorite productions or performances that you’ve done?</p>
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>Oh, um. Well, they do two shows a year. And, um, the chorus does like a spring show and they also do a Christmas show. And—and, um, hmm. You know, it’s hard to say because usually it’s—usually you just, uh, like it just because of the music that you’re doing. You know? You start to find, you know, there’s a lot of songs that you really enjoy doing.</p>
<p>So—when I first started doing it, I was—you know, I got a lot more involved and was actually, you know, in the front [inaudible] row of dancers, too. I said, “Well. Let me try that as well.” And, uh, so it was sort of funny because, um, they, um—the direct—the—let me think—the person that was, uh, in charge of the dance troupe, um—the one that, uh, did most of the choreography, uh, would tell me that basically, uh, you know, when you c—when you’re not as knowledgeable at dancing, they usually just put something in your hand and—and then—and so you’re—so I found myself with something in my hand a lot [<em>laughs</em>]. But otherwise, um—so I did that for a while, but then I realized that, um—that it was just taking up a lot of my time. So I went back to just, you know—just singing and not pf—you know, dancing or anything like that.</p>
<p>But, um, yeah. There’s been a lot of good shows actually. Um, I can’t particularly say one was better than the other. But it’s really just the songs, you know, that I like.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, and, uh, have you participated in the GALA<a title="" href="#_ftn2">[2]</a> events?
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>Oh, yeah. I’ve been in three of them. And, eh, from—if you’ve ever, uh, heard anybody talk about them, they’ll tell you that they’re really a life-changing experience. And—and, uh, when you go there, it—it’s—it’s like—it’s like a celebration. It’s really a festival. But—and it’s not a competition or anything like that. It’s really just like coming together with, uh, likeminded people that really enjoy, um, performing.</p>
<p>And, um—but, um, one of the most amazing things that I’ve found being in the GALA is just the accolades that you get. I mean, you—you know, here we perform in maybe f—in front of like, uh, uh, a[sic] audience of maybe 800 people. Five to 800 people. There you have full[sic] house, um, of 2,500 people. And—and they give you standing ovations every song. And just—it—it’s just amazing. I mean you come out of, uh, the theater after a performance and you’re—and you’re met with r—you know, people lining up along the—you know, the hallways and the—and the passages out. Just applauding you all the way out. I—it—it—it’s—it’s quite unreal [<em>laughs</em>]. It’s—it’s—we have our own little world of, um—of people that just really appreciate what they do. You know? So—and when you’re really good, then y—y—you know, the accolades are amazing. I mean—but just full houses, you know, the whole time. And—and s—it’s like thousands of people. More than, uh, like whatever scene that they show here. You know? So—I can’t even describe it. It’s just great. You know? Just that whole experience.</p>
<p>So [<em>sighs</em>] yeah. It’s always fun. I’ve done three and, um—over a period of time. And the last two have been in the same city. So that—that was fun ‘cause I got to go back and see, um, people that, you know—that I knew from that city as well.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm. And…</p>
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>So…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…do you—are you comfortable sharing what city that was in?</p>
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>Um, well, with—the last, um, two GALAs have been in Colorado. Denver, Colorado. And, um, so tha—I just happened to have been dating somebody that—long distance that w—w—his hometown was in Denver. So I spent a lot of time in Denver seeing him. A—and so like half and half doing the show and half’s, you know, seeing my friend. So it was kind of nice.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>And where was the other, um…</p>
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>Oh…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…[inaudible] at?</p>
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>…the other one was, um—it was when I was with, uh, uh, the Fort Lauderdale [Gay Men’s] Chorus. Um, that was in Tampa[, Florida]. And that was my first. And—and so that’s when I first got the taste of like having, um, you know, those accolades and the—and the large crowds of people that, you know—that fill theaters.</p>
<p>So it’s just—I mean I—I think that was the amazing thing is—I mean is, you know, you’re with a group of talented people here in Orlando. But can you imagine being in—in a place where the talent just comes from all over the world? I mean d—y—you—you see—uh, I—I get, you know—the one thing I find that—that’s so amazing is that, you know, it’s a—it’s a whole bunch of people from all walks of life. You have men, women. You have s—you have all, um, you know, uh, genders. And, um, you have colors of, you know, all races and colors. And—and—and we’re all—we all get along. And we all just, you know—just build on—I mean, um, the world could really learn from, you know—if everybody could just be a chorus, that would be amazing. You know?</p>
<p>So when you—when you see that and you see that—that old, young, men, women, all, you know—a—all just come together. Just—just without—it’s like a—a peaceful time. And, I mean, I—I—that’s I think why it’s so amazing. You know? And that’s why I—I even like the chorus here. And just doing the chorus here. You know? It’s a group of people that comes with many different religions and all kinds of different backgrounds. But we, you know—we really enjoy just doing this whole performance for—for the people that we like and love in our families. So, uh, i—that’s the experience that you really get from it I think.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, and so I’d like to talk about Pulse and, uh…
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>Okay.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…I was wondering, um, how you first heard about Pul—the Pulse shooting.</p>
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>Um, I was, um—you know, let me think about that one because, uh—what was I doing? I have—I think what it was is, um, I—I woke up and, you know—you know how people—you get on Facebook. That’s kind of the first thing you do. Or you—y—you know, you—and—and that’s where you start seeing what’s—has happened in the last day or so. You know? I think that, you know, our social media is really like just y—you can just find out things that are happening in like d—not—you know, immediately. And so we live in a culture now where we have the technology to just hear about something that happened like the night before.</p>
<p>Uh, and so I think—think that’s where I was. I think I was just like looking through Facebook and—and I saw that there had been some—something that hap—had happened. And, um, you know, so, uh—I just—I’m trying to remember like, you know, exactly what—what it was. I think it was pretty much Facebook if I recall. You know? Or my friend. My one friend that usually calls me or something if I haven’t gotten on Facebook and maybe told me or something. I don’t exactly remember.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>And do you remember what your reaction was or what your thoughts were when you first heard?</p>
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>Um, well, you know, I think that a—at that time, when—when the news was coming out, we weren’t quite sure, like, you know, the extent of, like, what had happened. Everybody was kind of like, you know, just, um, uh—just—just l—um, how would you put it? Um, just in the dark about, like, you know, uh, how many people wha—w—you know? What was involved. Who was in there. All we knew that what it was—was a shooting. We didn’t know, like, who it was. You know? I think at that point in time I think I didn’t n—stop looking at the news. And—and just watched the whole time.</p>
<p>I also have a roommate who’s younger. He’s about twenty-some years old. And i—and just to see him go through that. You know? That—because he’s a, you know—he—he would be someone that would have gone to the Pulse. Um, I stopped really going out to clubs a long time ago. They—so this was pretty much a young person club. And so, um, he knew more people. He was more connected. And so I kind of lived like a little bit vicariously through his experience and what was going on. And, uh—and really just, um, you know, uh, uh—like I said, I wasn’t—I didn’t know people in the club, but I knew people that knew people. And—and in a small town like this, you kind of know—everybody’s kind of connected. So you kind of feel for even your friends. You know? I mean we all had kind of a story to tell about like, um, who we knew and how—what they were going through pretty much.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, and so you mentioned you watched the news. Was there anything else in particular you did on that Sunday? Um, do you remember what—what you did the rest of the day?</p>
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>Mm. N—no. I don’t even recall. I just know that we were just—you know, just trying to find out, you know, um, like, you know, if—how many people were—were sur—you know, were—were hurt. And if there—how many survivors there were. And—and you really found yourself just getting totally involved in finding out. Like, I mean, I think I—I watched every news story that came out. And—and saw all the, um, you know, the—th—the interviews of the people talking about what they were going through. So I think that we were all kind of like just doing that at that point in time.</p>
Um, the [Orlando Gay] Chorus hadn’t really gotten involved in anything yet. But the—so we, you know—when we would go to rehearsals like the following Wednesday or something like that, then we, you know—then things would—we’d, you know—people would tell their stories of like who and what they, you know—they knew. But, um, I don’t actually recall anything more than just looking and—and getting so involved with like every detail of like what was happening. You know? So…
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>So can you talk a little bit about the, um—the [Orlando Gay] Chorus’s response to the shooting and what sort of happened with the Orlando Gay Chorus in the days and in the weeks following?</p>
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>Well, I mean, for me i—i—i—it seemed like, um, we were all—the chorus was kind of taking a new direction. You know? I mean, it had always been a chorus that did outreaches, I mean, you know, to the community at large. I mean we’ve always done that. We—you know? We’ve always performed at—at certain places. Like, um, you know, there’s an elderly care facility that we’ve performed at. And we’ve done [Come Out With] Pride [Orlando] events and those kind of things. And—and we’ve done—and we’ve kind of geared ourselves towards—like just doing the national anthem. You know? We—when someone needed that in—i—you know, in their group or something.</p>
<p>Um, the outreaches hadn’t been, you know—I mean, you know, we—now that we have a new director, we—we’re starting to—and we had some other people that really get totally involved in outreaches. So, um—so the outreaches before the Pulse were just, you know—basically just, you know, like, “Yeah. We’ll do a—we’ll do your wedding ceremony or something like that. Or we’ll—we’ll do a song for, you know—for, uh—for the, uh—like if you want the—the, you know—the, um, national anthem or something.</p>
<p>But then after Pulse, um, we f—we found that the—they’re—they start to do, uh, vigils. You know? And, um, I think that that’s what—and—and I hadn’t gone to any of the—the first ones. Mostly because they were kind of telling us, you know, that, um—that, uh, c—they—the city was sort of waiting for—for a time when they could have an organized one where they could have like, um, security there. And they were kind of concerned about, uh, you know, the s—community in general. And putting guys—you know, doing something like this, um, that wasn’t like an official thing that they could s—you know, make sure that they had the manpower. ‘Cause they—I think, uh, at this point they were sort of stressed out that the—the police department, you know—trying to, you know, look into, you know, what was happening with the, um—what—with the shooting. And if there was, uh, you know, anything else. Th—so they couldn’t guarantee the safety of—of ‘em.</p>
<p>But the—what ended up happening was the first vigil that was, um—was announced, um, ended up to[sic] become, uh, a huge one. And I—I kind of stayed away from ‘em because we were all kind of concerned like that, you know, that—you know, that they wouldn’t have the, uh, you know—the, uh, security in place. So—so I didn’t really get involved with the first or[sic] one. But then, um—but when they did decide to have an official one, then—then I did that one. But, um—but the first one, you know, I—I watched from, you know, the—the videos afterwards. And it became like the—the—the one that they did at Dr. Phillips [Center for the Performing Arts] became—that became the—sort of the—the—the one that was representing our city all around the world.</p>
<p>Um, you know, uh, um, after that, then i—you know, uh, they—they started doing the memorial services and stuff, too. It wasn’t that long after, you know, that. And that’s when, um, we started to go and—and do these like small things at, um—for some of the people that were in there. Uh, I, uh—I was—I was feeling kind of, I mean, that—the whole thing about doing a memorial service is—is sort of—you feel almost displaced. Like i—it’s a surreal feeling, you know, that—you know, that—and—and you’re not quite sure—I mean, ‘cause, you know, a chorus is really a—a group that’s there to entertain. We were never, you know—we—that—to take on the role of—of being, uh, um, somebody that, uh, sh—that is comforting the community was certainly something I wasn’t really prepared for.</p>
<p>So it—so after a while, um, it—I found that it’s—it—that, um, it was kind of, um—it started to wear—weigh on me a little bit I think. Um, and—and the whole, you know, I mean, and—and I don’t know. I just think that you’ve—you’ve found—I found myself, um—and I didn’t—I—like I—that I couldn’t find someone that I could communicate with on what was happening to me. You know? When we—you know, h—i—i—it—it sort of—you start to feel kind of a guilt or something.</p>
<p>Um, that—the reason I say that is because, um, you know, p—before the Pulse, you know, we—we were a small group that, you know, struggled to be known in the community. And then, uh—and then a lot of, uh, organizations started asking us to come to do something for them. You know? Um, and not necessarily of—of—of—of a vigil or—or memorial. But just something representing, you know, the LGB[T] community. And one of the—and that’s when, um, we got one of the most amazing, um, uh, events that, you know, I thought I ever like really sang at—was, you know—I mean there—there are two that, eh, you—you did ment—you did ask me what, you know, there—if there were a couple things that stand out, um, um, uh, being in the chorus. And the one, and this is—this i—was before the Pulse—was that the Dr. Phillips Center [for the Performing Arts] had asked us at—to perform songs for them. And it was a concert called “A Salute to the American Flag”. And to me, that was just—at that—that—that’s up there with the GALA Choruses. I mean, you know, to be—to represent, um, the—to be a part of the Dr. Phillips, um—I mean, uh, the, uh, Orlando Philharmonic [Orchestra], um—those are the ones that asked us to—to be part of this, uh, “Salute to the American Flag”.</p>
<p>So we did this concert at the Bob Carr [Theater]. And, uh—and we had like over like a hundred peop—of our chorus members there. And—and a—at—you know, what was really cool was after the reviews came out for this show, they—they actually said that we were like just an amazing group. I mean this was the reviews from the Sun [Orlando?] Sentinel saying that we sounded amazing. And they even thought that the—that the—the Orlando Philharmonic didn’t have the quality that—that they could’ve had. I think they criticized the way the director did some of the songs. But, you know—but our part was like amazing. So that was the one, uh, that, eh—show that just really stood out for me. I mean just…</p>
<p>And then, um—and the other performance was because of the Pulse and what had happened. And it was, um, that we got to sing halftime for the [Orlando City Soccer Club] soccer game. And so there was like—there’s 36,000 people, you know, at halftime listening to a couple songs we did. And we did this one beautiful rendition of, um—of, uh, Cyndi Lauper’s<a title="" href="#_ftn3">[3]</a> color—you know, “True Colors” song. Um, so I—I—I have to say, you know, I’m 60 years old and it’s take—it just—I, you know—that alone stands out as the most ama—one of the most amazing things that anybody that’s like gay could ever imagine is to be out and open in—in a na—on a national level. And just being able to—to be who you are and—and have just all these people just accepting you.</p>
And so after that—after I had done that—you know, right after we did that halftime show, you know, I—a—and then even just like s—standing there and having some beers and watching the game, it was just totally the most fun. But I got[sic] to tell you, I felt so—so guilty. And I couldn’t even explain why. It’s just, you know, here’s some—something that happened that—where—where some people lost their lives. And it took that much to—I mean just—I mean I shouldn’t, you know, i—i—can you imagine just the f—the guilt you feel? To have something so amazing, but the lo—but at the price of losing, uh, all these people.
<p>And so [<em>laughs</em>], um, when that happened, I—you know, there wasn’t anybody I could reach out to. I mean I had a friend that really—you know, one of my best friends, like I couldn’t get him to understand, you know, why, you know, I was feeling this way. And, you know, like when you have something like that happen and you can’t really have [<em>sniffs</em>]—and you don’t have anybody to talk to. So—so I called my friend [<em>laughs</em>]. I have a good friend in the area that—and like I said, you know, a—and I told her what happened. You know? That a—all this. You know? Tha—these amazing things that happened. But y—you know I—‘cause you know if you grow up 60 years, you never what di—e—experience—you’re always like in the shadows. You never tell people like what your life is like. You know? This—this is what it’s been for s—you know, all my life. And—and so when you’re in groups like this, like the chorus or anything then—and you’re like at festivals, you kind of have these great experiences. But I never would have thought that, you know—that, you know, been a—been able to sing at like the soccer games or stuff like that. That, you know—I mean that was so…</p>
<p>So I asked my friend, Marian[sp]—so Marian[sp], Joe[?] and—came over. And that’s when we went over to one of the, um, candlelight vigils that—that they were holding downtown at the Pulse. And so it was nice to have my friends with me to—to just kind of get me through that—that part of the guilt I think. You know? I mean that’s—that’s kind of what it’s been like. But then that’s a long time ago, so I’ve kind of recovered [<em>laughs</em>]. So kind of like that. Anyway [<em>sighs</em>].</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>And, um [<em>sniffs</em>], what have your thoughts been about—these are here if you want them—um, what have your thoughts been about the r—reactions of, um, the community to—to what’s happened?
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>Oh, I th—I think that the community in general has been incredible. I, um—not only the community, but the whole world. I mean, you knew, uh, th—um, when we were at the last GALA [Choruses Festival], um, it was really one of those GALAs that, um, was after the Pulse. So—so we were—they were kind of telling us i—in, you know—at the rehearsals that don’t—“Be prepared because, you know, you’re going to get a lot of, uh, uh, you know—y—you—the response you’re going to get at GALA is going to be different than what you’re used to s—being.”</p>
<p>And so when you come f—from a community, you know, that—where something like this has happened, you know, um—like say for example, what happened in Paris<a title="" href="#_ftn4">[4]</a>. You know? That sort of thing. You know? The—the world seems to really have come together. I mean and it—when we—what happened in Paris seems to be what was happening to us now. You know? The—the shooting at the nightclub. And then, you know, now—and then what—what we had to experience. You know? You, um—so like the chorus was kind of saying, “When you go to the GALA, you know, just be prepared that, you know—that, um, they—people—the community around you—and—and not only Orlando, but, you know, just every c—every community, um, is going to respond in some manner.”</p>
<p>I mean we—you know, on Facebook alone, you know, tha—there were so many re—positive responses from all over the world, you know, that, um—and we were still getting them even now. You know? I mean there are choruses that are—that are sending us, you know, like—like they’re—they’re having fundraisers and—and sending us, you know, um, uh, funds to help our chorus here. You know? Th—through the next show and all of that. But—and it’s—i—it’s all really re—as a result of the Pulse. I mean it’s just, you know, um, the—everything. The mayor’s [John Hugh “Buddy” Dyer] been great. And, you know, it’s just been just a—a—a—a real, uh, unity that’s—has happened, um, for—for us. And—and so I—I think the chorus is—us—a little part of that, too. You know? I think that we’re just kind of like a—a—a group that, you know,—that, um—that everybody’s kind of, uh, uh—how would I put it? Sharing their experiences with or something, which is kind of an outlet. You know? Kind of an outlet for them I suppose. I don’t know. But, uh. Yeah.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Was it—was there anything else specific you noticed in the reaction of other people—other choruses at the GALA event?
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>Oh, yeah. I mean when—when we did go to the GALA, uh, they—it—it was, um—it was, uh—it was like a—when you’d go and see like a sho—y—we’d be part of a show, w—we were part of the, uh—the opening ceremonies show, where we kind of just, uh, came up onstage and sang like maybe the last song of—of a—of a—of a song that we were doing with, uh, you know, i—with the other groups. Um, we ended up getting these amazing standing ovation[sic], you know, that just lasted for th—the longest of times. I mean it was, uh, a—a—and when the director started t—talking about, you know, um, the events that occurred up until the time, you know, the—the—all the vigils that we were doing and the memorial services i—i—you know, it was, uh—everybody just kind of stood up. You know?</p>
<p>And then—and then, as even if we would walk through like the, eh—I don’t know if you’ve ever been to Colorado. The—there’s a m—a pedestrian mall, where all the theaters are on one side and there’s like, um—there’s a couple theaters on the other side. But—and then there’s like kind of a parking garage that’s—has some floors on it. Well, the—the—the Cor—the Colorado choruses had all got[sic] together and they just m—um, um, they sang a song, um, and—of, uh—and—and I’m trying to remember. I think it was “America the Beautiful” actually. And they—and then they draped, you know, banners over the—the, um—the, uh, railings that showed that they were su—you know, in support of—of what had happened in Orlando. So they—they had their America—“Orlando Strong” banners hanging as they sang this “American the Beautiful” song. I mean, you know, there’s one thing about songs, it just brings everybody like together. It’s just—it’s just a moving experience. So that—that was just one of the many things.</p>
<p>And any—everywhere you went, you know, there was always—because we wore like little banners that said we were from Orlando. So everywhere you went like we—all throughout the event, you know, you’d get—you’d get just hugs and, you know—that they were think[sic] of you—think of you. And—and, you know, just—just well-wishes. You know? I [<em>sighs</em>]—yeah. It was k—quite an experience I have to say. But, um, yeah.</p>
<p>It’s hard to kind of go on with it, you know? I don’t know if anything like that happens, you’re like—you know, you want your life to go on. You wanted things to—to be settled and to go. But, um—but we s—we still, you know, w—I think we—we’ve changes as a group now. And we’re kind of a group that’s out there for people if they need something. You know? We’re—we’re not just like—we’re—we’ve become like sort of a support group for other groups in town or something. You know? It’s hard to explain. Um, you know?</p>
<p>So—and I don’t want to bring up politics, but they—they have a—they did ask a lot of us to, um, you know—if this is not a—an official outreach for the chorus, but they did ask a lot of us if they—if we wanted to sing for the, uh, president and—when he comes to town on Sunday. So there’s gonna be a bunch of us over there s—s—singing the national anthem. Not me. I didn’t get that email in time [<em>laughs</em>]. But, you know, I’m kind of so happy for my, you know—that my friends that are—had an opportunity to be part of the, uh, election, um, thing that’s happening. So if you get a chance, go over to—to Kissimmee[, Florida] and think the president’s gonna be there.<a title="" href="#_ftn5">[5]</a> And we’re gonna be singing the national anthem. I mean the, you know—some singers that I know. Not official. Um, oh gee. See, it’s just—just a volunteer thing. So—so that’s kind of exciting for them.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, do you have any thoughts about what Pulse as a place means to you? I don’t, um, know if it had any significance for you before or…
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>Well…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…does it now?</p>
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>…that’s a good question. What Pulse, um—what Pulse, uh, mean to me—I mean I—you know I had—I—I had been there before. I mean probably w—like, uh, 10 years ago. I probably went there a few times. You know? And, um, it—it was really, uh, just a—a place to, you know, socialize. Um, you know, uh, the night that—of the tragedy though, I—ey—they, uh—I had heard that it was like Hispanic night, which meant that they would have been doing some like cool dancing. ‘Cause I don’t know if you’ve ever been to like, uh, a place where, uh—where h—you know, they, uh—you know, it’s a kind of Spanish—Spanish—Hispanic music thing. They dance a lot differently than, uh—than regular disco clubs or whatever. ‘Cause, I mean, I—I used to go to the places in Miami. You know? And, I mean, they’re—they—they do salsas and, um, you know—I—I don’t know all the—all the ty—types of dances that they do. But it’s—it’s quite fun. You know? Because it’s—it’s—it’s like couple dancing in a way that, you know—that’s more, you know, where you touch each other as opposed to just, uh, disco music, where you don’t.</p>
<p>So that—I could imagine it would’ve been fun. And if I—actually, to tell you the truth, if I had known that it was like, uh, Hispanic night, I probably would’ve gone just for the dancing. If—if I could find someone to go with, you know, at the time. But—but, uh, no. I—it—for a long time, it hadn’t been any place I would have gone because it’s just, um—there was just a younger crowd. You know? So—though, I mean, I—I’m sure there were people my age there [<em>laughs</em>]. I’m just not a club person these days. So—but I’m—yeah [<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, so do you have any thoughts about what you might see as the long-term consequences of the Pulse shooting for—for this community or maybe even broader to the country?
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>Well, like always—I always hope that, you know, these kind of things can make differences when it comes to like, you know, um, gun control. That sort of thing. That’s really where I hope it goes more than anything. I mean—I mean we just—you know, as a s—as a country, we—I think we, you know—I mean there’s a lot of—you know, being an election year, too, which, uh, makes a big difference—but, um, i—i—i—you know, i—i—there’s all[sic] so much argument[sic] about like h—how and—how we use guns. And—and w—why they go into the wrong hands. And—and, you know, what can we do about it? You know? And I—and I know there—that—that, um—that there’s a lot of disagreement on, you know, like how—how guns should be handled. You know? And—and especially assault rifles. I mean—I mean just that—just i—you know, i—anybody that’s read what happened at the Pulse with—with—with these people that use these assault rifles—I mean these are very destructive. I mean they—they—the, uh, early responders didn’t even know like if they could even get into the building. They didn’t even know how many people were actually in the building. You know? The amount of gunfire that goes off like during that time is incredible. And it—and not only that, but those guns are very destructive. And so, you know, when you’re shot with like a—a—an assault rifle, you’re—you have damage to you—to your body. More so than just, you know—just a gun that just, you know, shoots like a little—little—li—s—ho—you know, handgun.</p>
<p>A—and it just doesn’t make any sense why—why our country, you know, w—what this love affair is with these assault rifles. And—and I know for a fact that—that, you know, there was a law not long ago that—tha—that kind of, eh, kept these kind of guns out of, uh—out of people’s hands. But then, I—I guess, you know, like all—eh, some laws, they—they—they just have a certain period of time. And then they—they, you know, become null and void or something. You know? So I—I’m just hoping that—that, you know, we can as a society adhere—can just find ways—you know, you can get guns on the internet. You can get guns at gun shows. And you don’t even need to have a background search. I mean that’s what I’m kind of hoping. You know? It’s—it’s really about that. You know?</p>
<p>Um, you know, if you’ve read anything about the sh—the guy that—that was in the shooting, you know that he was somebody that just had like really issues. You know? Like more mental issues. So, um, I don’t know. I mean I just—that’s what I would like to see really.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, so do you have any other reflections about the Pulse shooting or your experience as a member of the [Orlando] Gay Chorus that we haven’t talked about or haven’t covered?
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>Um, gosh. We talk—covered quite a lot. Haven’t we [<em>laughs</em>]? Uh, w—well, um, like I said, um, you know, uh, the Pulse was—was really a tr—a—a tragedy. And though I didn’t really know anybody like, um, personally, I did know people who did know people. Um, and I just—you know, I just feel s—sorry for any community that ever would have to go through something like this. You know? Um, and the—th—and the reality is—is—is that, you know, un—until the world changes, you know, we’re gonna have this sort of thing. It’s gonna come and it’s gonna happen occasionally. You know? Like different places around the world.</p>
<p>I mean this—this is nothing compared to what’s happening overseas. So—but, uh—but—so that’s why it’s kind of nice to have like the chorus to have, you know—to put some positive part into your life. And so that’s kind of, you know—I’m looking forward to the show. Come—it’s—it’s on December 10<sup>th</sup>[, 2016]. Um, a little—a little, uh, fu—uh, you know, uh, a little, uh, sales pitch there [<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p>So yeah. So we’re really just—you know, what I think what it is is I think we’re all just getting back to our lives now. You know? And so that’s, um—you know, it’s been a quite—quite a few months since it’s happened. And—and, um, so it’s nice to just kind of give back and, you know, look forward to—to being a part of that group again. And doing s—something that’s more entertaining and fun and, uh—and positive. So I think that’s really a part of it—i—is that re—you know, you had the tragedies—tragedies, but you also have a lot of things to look forward to. So I’m really looking forward to it. That—that sort of thing. So…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Alright. Is there anything else you wanted to share?</p>
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>Um, no. I think that’s pretty [<em>laughs</em>]…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>…mu—much it. Yeah. It’s quite a[sic] ordeal [<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>Um, no. You know? It’s just this. I think, you know, like, um, yeah. I guess the one thing that I would like to say about, um, the chorus is i—it does, uh, benefit people that like, you know—you know, that we come together a lot. That I’m certainly gul—you know, happy that—that I have something that—you know, that—that is very community-oriented. I think that’s really the, uh—one of the things that I really enjoy about it—is that it—is, uh—is that it puts me back into the community. Something that, you know—that—when you’re working every day and you—and y—all your life is pretty much just work and—a—that’s nice to have that outlet. Yeah. So. An—an—an—and I’ve done—an—I’ve had a lot of nice experiences. So—but…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Great. Well—well, thank you so much. Thanks for talking with us. We really appreciate it.</p>
<p><strong>Herman<br /></strong>Thank you. Thanks.</p>
<div><br /><div>
<p><a title="" href="#_ftnref1">[1]</a> Pennsylvania State University</p>
</div>
<div>
<p><a title="" href="#_ftnref2">[2]</a> Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses</p>
</div>
<div>
<p><a title="" href="#_ftnref3">[3]</a> Cynthia Ann Stephanie Lauper</p>
</div>
<div>
<p><a title="" href="#_ftnref4">[4]</a> November 2015 Paris attacks</p>
</div>
<div>
<p><a title="" href="#_ftnref5">[5]</a> President Barack Obama visited Osceola County Stadium in Kissimmee, Florida, on November 6, 2016, in support of Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton’s final push to win Florida.</p>
</div>
</div>
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
A Salute to the American Flag
America the Beautiful
assault rifles
Bob Carr Theater
Come Out With Pride Orlando
Cyndi Lauper
Cynthia Ann Stephanie Lauper
Denver
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Facebook
Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus
fundraisers
GALA Choruses Festival
Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses
GLBT
gun control
gun regulation
gun violence
hate crimes
homosexuality
John Hugh “Buddy” Dyer
Kissimmee
Latin dancing
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
mass shootings
Miami
New Port Richey
November 2015 Paris attacks
orlando
Orlando City Soccer Club
Orlando Gay Chorus
Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
outreach events
Patrick Herman
Pennsylvania State University
Pulse massacre
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
Sarah Schneider
terrorist attacks
True Colors
vigils
Washington, D.C.
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/c4a7c19efcd344fcc98e14addfc7600f.pdf
340d2c2cc0e254c232e5ce4f0457fab2
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Orlando Gay Chorus Collection
Alternative Title
Gay Chorus Collection
Is Part Of
Orlando Gay Chorus Collection, RICHES Program
Type
Collection
Digital Collection
<div class="element-text"><a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a></div>
<div class="element-text"> </div>
Subject
Orlando (Fla.)
Music--Florida
Dance--United States
Gay culture--United States
Description
The Orlando Gay Chorus (OGC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts and humanitarian organization, and part of the Gay and Lesbian Association (GALA) of Choruses. Founded on Valentines Day 1990, OGC is not only one of the largest mixed gay choirs in the United States at over 100 members, but they also boast four smaller ensembles that perform annual concerts, cabarets, and a host of community events, such as Come Out With Pride, Orlando Museum of Art’s Festival of Trees, and World AIDS Day memorial services. In 2017, the group performed at over 105 events, including 15 performances for the first anniversary of the Pulse Nightclub tragedy. Members come from all walks of life and all sexual and gender orientations, including straight allies. OGC lives by the motto “Singing the World to a Better Place” and strives to use music to change attitudes and build a stronger community.
Oral History
A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Oral History of Reverend Margaret E. "Peggy" Howland
Alternative Title
Oral History, Reverend Margaret E. "Peggy" Howland
Subject
Orlando (Fla.)
Music--Florida
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Women clergy
Description
An oral history interview of Reverend Margaret E. “Peggy” Howland, a member of the Orlando Gay Chorus and a former Presbyterian minister. The interview was conducted by Geoffrey Cravero at the interviewee’s residence in Orlando, Florida, on December 13th, 2016. Some of the topics covered include becoming one of the first female ministers, fighting for GLBTQ+ rights, joining the Orlando Gay Chorus, her role in the Orlando Gay Chorus, her favorite productions, the mass shooting at Pulse nightclub, women in the chorus, the Orlando Gay Chorus’s response to Pulse tragedy, changing community attitudes on homosexuality, missing out on initial vigils, memorials and outreaches, physical challenges, performing at the first responders breakfast, the long-term consequences of Pulse tragedy, and her closing remarks.
Table Of Contents
0:00:00 Becoming one of the first female ministers <br />0:05:35 Fighting for GLBTQ+ rights <br />0:13:12 Joining the Orlando Gay Chorus <br />0:20:54 Role in the Orlando Gay Chorus and favorite productions <br />0:24:21 Mass shooting at Pulse nightclub <br />0:26:12 Role in the Orlando Gay Chorus and favorite productions (continued) <br />0:27:58 Women in the chorus <br />0:31:04 Orlando Gay Chorus’s response to Pulse tragedy <br />0:37:58 Changing community attitudes on homosexuality <br />0:41:57 Missing out on initial vigils, memorials and outreaches <br />0:44:23 Physical challenges <br />0:45:31 First responders breakfast <br />0:48:18 Long-term consequences of Pulse tragedy <br />0:52:27 Closing remarks
Abstract
Oral history interview of Reverend Margaret E. “Peggy” Howland. Interview conducted by Geoffrey Cravero in Orlando, Florida, on December 13, 2016.
Type
Moving Image
Source
Howland, Margaret E. "Peggy". Interviewed by Geoffrey Cravero, December 13, 2016. Audio record available. <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RICHES</a>, Orlando, Florida.
Requires
Multimedia software, such as <a href="http://www.apple.com/quicktime/download/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> QuickTime</a>.
<a href="http://www.adobe.com/products/reader.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Adobe Acrobat Reader</a>
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/206" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Orlando Gay Chorus Collection</a>, LGBTQ+ Collection, RICHES.
Has Format
Digital transcript of original 56-minute, and 28-second oral history: Howland, Margaret E. "Peggy". Interviewed by Geoffrey Cravero. Audio record available. <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, Orlando, Florida.
Coverage
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando, Florida
Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses Festival, Denver, Colorado
Joy Metropolitan Community Church, Orlando, Florida
Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Florida
Orlando Museum of Art, Orlando, Florida
The Plaza Live, Orlando, Florida
Pulse nightclub, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Howland, Margaret E. "Peggy"
Cravero, Geoffrey
Publisher
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RICHES</a>
Date Created
2016-12-13
Date Copyrighted
2016-12-13
Format
video/mp4
application/pdf
Extent
363 MB
Medium
56-minute, and 28-second audio recording
18-page digital transcript
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Music Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Reverend Margaret E. "Peggy" Howland and Geoffrey Cravero and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">RICHES</a>.
Rights Holder
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RICHES</a>
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Ahlquist, Karen. <a href="http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/62281651" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Chorus and Community</em></a>. Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 2006.
Boedeker, Hal. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/features/os-orlando-gay-chorus-25-years-20150611-story.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Orlando Gay Chorus marks 25 years</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, October 18, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/features/os-orlando-gay-chorus-25-years-20150611-story.html.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Hyman, Jamie. "<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/2016/06/16/community-rises-mass-shooting-orlando-gay-nightclub-kills-49/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Community rises up after mass shooting at Orlando gay nightclub kills 49</a>." <em>Watermark</em>, June 16, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.watermarkonline.com/2016/06/16/community-rises-mass-shooting-orlando-gay-nightclub-kills-49/.
Click to View (Movie, Podcast, or Website)
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGxwUnVAyGU&feature=youtu.be" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oral History of Reverend Margaret E. "Peggy" Howland</a>
Transcript
Cravero
Alright. Let’s see. Okay. Let’s see. This is Geoffrey Cravero and I’m conducting an oral history with Reverend Peggy Howland of the Orlando Gay Chorus. The interview is being conducted at the interviewee’s residence in Orlando, Florida, on Tuesday, December 13th, 2016.
Peggy, thanks for speaking with us today. If you would, let’s start by having you state your full name and telling us a little bit about where you’re from.
Howland
Well, officially, I’m the Reverend Margaret E. Howland. But I’m called Peggy. Um, I’m a—a New Yorker. Um, was living in New York City and right around there for 54 years before I came down here to Orlando, um, going almost four years now.
Cravero
That’s great. What, um—let’s see. What about a little about your family history? What did your parents do?
Howland
My father was an attorney. Head of a law firm. And, um, my mother had taught school before she started having her five children [laughs]. And, um, we had a very c—comfortable life after three of u—the first three of us were born during the [Great] Depression. And, um, we skimped and saved a lot. And, uh—but then, uh, as my father became, um—got his law degree and became active as a lawyer and a community figure, we—we had a fairly comfortable life.
Cravero
And, um, how and when did you become involved in, uh, the church?
Howland
Oh. We went to Sunday school from childhood. My, um—my—my father had been an Episcopalian and my mother a Presbyterian. But they decided on a Methodist church that had a big Sunday school. And, uh, we went to Sunday school all the time.
Uh, but as a teenager, I began to become—I think really partly it was the i—influence of my Sunday school teachers that I became more interested in the Bible. And I—I think I spent all my life searching for love. And, uh, I—I think—I think my mother wasn’t able to show, uh, love in a very overt way. Uh, because I always had the feeling I was trying to get my mother to love me. But God loved me. And I began as a—especially as a teenager, I began to have this overwhelming conviction of the love of God for me and for all people. And, um—and I fell in love with the Bible, uh, and the stories.
And eventually, uh—it was a time when a woman—I mean there were no women ministers. Um, and I didn’t even—we were Republicans in our family. And we didn’t, uh—we—people talked about women’s rights. Equal rights for women. And I didn’t know if I was in favor of that because I had been taught by some pretty conservative Christians that, um, women were supposed to be in a different position than men. Course, I don’t believe that any more. Uh, I think God loves us all the same. And, uh—and I think it’s a misinterpretation of the Bible, uh, to make—and—and—and failing to see the, um, teachings of Jesus and the example of Jesus. It—and—and even the example of St. Paul and others in the Bible, uh, for whom women, eh—Christianity liberated women and gave them an opportunity to be part of—of this message of—of God’s love, uh, for people.
And, um, i—it was—it was slow. I was slow growing into that. But at—at the University of Pennsylvania, uh, where I went to school, uh, I was able to major in the Lands of the Bible. I majored in Oriental Studies. Basically, the Near East. And I studied Ancient, um, Art. And Literature. And History. And Language. And Civilization of Egypt. And Mesopotamia. And Palestine. All the lands, uh, of the Bible. And s—I studied Greek and Hebrew to read the Bible in the original languages. And, uh, it was—it was just, uh—I was just so in love with the Bible and of the message of God’s love, uh, for people.
It was a long time before I fully began to understand God’s love for everybody. Um, when we were young, uh, we didn’t know anything about gay and lesbian. That was, uh—it was—it was so much in the closet. So hidden that you never saw it. And, uh—but as a woman minister—as one of the very first, uh, women—wo—uh, women me—in the ministry in the Presbyterian Church, uh—as we began—as—it was a long time. It was maybe 20 years after I was ordained that women began to be more, uh—it began to be more common for women to be clergy. And, uh, as we would meet in support groups and—and, uh, sharing with one another, it began to be very clear to us—it was in the early seventies that, uh, churches began to get concerned about whether homosexuals were allowed to be ordained. Um, which people thought was, you know—they began to think, Well, we shouldn’t—we should be kind to other people. But ordain them? Um, and, uh—and nobody ever thought marriage [laughs].
But, uh—but the women clergy began to see that gay people were being treated the same way we had been treated. Um, I mean people—people said very rude and crude things to me about they didn’t, you know—they didn’t believe—that God was—the Bible was against us. Wi—they didn’t believe that—that God would call a woman to be—to preach. But I knew from the very beginning that it wasn’t my idea [laughs].
Cravero
[laughs].
Howland
That it was God’s idea. Because I—I really believed that God had led me, uh, in this direction. Uh, so it didn’t matter what they said. And—and I, uh, often have thought about the words of, uh, Susan B. Anthony , who in 1848, was among the women who asked for the right to vote. And they didn’t get it until 1920, long after Susan B. Anthony was dead. And she had—she had gone to congress every year of her life, um, ask—asking and working for the right to vote. And she didn’t live to see it but she said, “Failure is impossible.” And this is what I began to t—tell my gay friends. “Failure is impossible [laughs].”
Uh, even though y—they couldn’t see that there would any time be acceptance, um—in the beginning, I used to worry that people would think that I was gay because I knew that the gay clergy—people that I knew were gay weren’t—were still in the closet. And I was never—I was never outing them. And they—I knew that they couldn’t speak up in public. But I could. And I felt—I began to feel a little angry about it for a while. Why do I have to do this all the time? People will start thinking I’m gay. And then it got to the point where I didn’t care if they did. And now I think I even consider it a compliment if somebody thinks I’m gay. Because, um—especially—I—I mean the gay people that I’ve known in the church have been very active through—in the Presbyterian Church nationally in terms of helping to open up, uh, ordination to women. Uh, I was a representative for my Presbytery to testify, um, at our general assembly, where we finally approved the ordination of gay and lesbian and transgender people.
And, um—and also was active—very active in working up in New York State, uh, for, uh, the—the state to approve the, uh, marriage of, uh, gay people. And I can remember just before the final vote of the senate in New York—and I was up there in my clerical collar, uh, at this[sic] senate hearings. And, um, demonstrating. And one of the men who was there—I think it was an Episcopal deacon, uh, said to me that he and his partner were married. They’d been married in Canada and they lived in New York. And I found out then that there were already 9,000 couples in New York—gay couples who were married legally and recognized by the State of New York because they’d been married somewhere else. Because the state would—would—while they wouldn’t allow anybody to be married in New York, they’d let—they’d recognize marriages from elsewhere. And so then, New York State voted, uh, to approve the, uh, marriage of—of gay and lesbian couples.
And, uh, then, shortly after that, I came to Florida and started working on it down here. And when I came to Florida, uh, my friends were appalled that I was leaving. I was kind of appalled, too. But I kne—I knew that I needed to take care of myself. And I was able to find a retirement community that I could come to here that I could afford. And so I said to them a—as I was leaving I would say, “I’m being sent as a missionary to a racist, sexist, homophobic, gun-totin’ state.” And they would laugh. And I would laugh. But after I got here, I gradually began to realize this was my mission here.
And, um, I—I—I—I couldn’t believe at the age of 80, when I came here, I could still sing. Because a lot of my friends were losing their voices. And, um, I—the first Sunday I was here—and I went to the Park Lake Presbyterian Church—uh, they had a notice in the bulletin about the Park Lake Gay-Straight Partnership meeting that next week. And, uh, I was thrilled. Um, and we have this marvelous small group of—of gay and straight people who—we have a partnership and we try to help educate the church, um, and other people about this. And—and last year we had our first marriage in the church of t—uh, two men. Then we had a wonderful celebration. And I—far as I know, we’re the only Presbyterian church so far in this Central Florida Presbytery that has had a gay marriage, uh, in the church. And it was a—it was great.
Um, but I—one of my friends introduced me to someone—we were at a gathering of FAVO. The Faith Arts Village of Orlando, which our church sponsors, uh, in a—in an old converted motel, uh, next door to the church. Um, it’s a marvelous, uh, thing. The first Friday of every month. And I was there and I was having—having something to eat sitting outside. And I got introduced to this guy who was a member of the Orlando Gay Chorus. And I said—and, uh, I said, “Oh.” I said, “I’ve gotta find someplace to sing, um, here in Orlando. Because I’m afraid if I don’t keep singing, I’ll lose the ability to sing. Because so many of my friends my age can’t sing anymore.” And he says, “You can join the Orlando Gay Chorus.” And I said, “You have women?” And they said, “Yes.” I said, “Do you have to be gay?” He said, “No.
Cravero
[laughs].
Howland
Everybody can sing.” So that was in the summer. First summer here. And at Christmastime I went to the holiday show that the chorus had at the Plaza Live. And I—I bought a—a ticket that cost a little more so I could get in early. And I went and sat in the front row. And I can see on the stage standing on the risers there were some people sitting on the risers, who obviously weren’t able to stand. And so they were allowed to sit. And there were people with white hair. And there were young and very old. There were men and women. There were—there were—I already knew there were gay and straight and trans. And black and white. And really, really fat people. And really skinny people [laughs]. And, uh, then I began to—at the end they came—they came down the steps right in front of me and walked out. And I saw them helping a woman down the steps who obviously had cerebral palsy. And I thought, I can belong to this group.
And so we had the auditions in January, um, three years ago. And, uh—and I became a member of the chorus. And it’s been just amazing. On the—there are two of us that are 83 years old in the chorus. We’re the two oldest. And, um, I’m very proud of that [laughs].
Cravero
[laughs].
Howland
But that’s—that’s what I found in this community. Uh, a loving, caring, thoughtful, kind, talented group of people of every sort who—who sing. And who work hard. And, uh, they’ve been so helpful and accepting of me. And in the beginning—in the beginning, I couldn’t stand the noise. I was—I—I—there’s so much—there—these young people, they—they make a lot of noise [laughs].
Cravero
[laughs].
Howland
I thought, I—I don’t know if I can last through this. But I have. And, um, they’re so helpful and—and kind. And they’re really like a family to me. Um, it’s been wonderful. And, uh, especially the last couple years, um, with our new, um, artistic directors. The quality of the chorus—it only be can’t—only became a soprano, alto, tenor and bass a couple years before I came here. F—s—it’s going on for 26 years now. And there’s still some of the original men who founded the chorus in it.
Uh, what courage these men had 26 years ago, uh, to come out. Uh, and that—to me, that’s what really has brought about, uh, the—the acceptance, um—full acceptance of people. Uh, it’s pretty good here in the Orlando area. Although there’s still problems some places. But, um, the—the one thing that has made it possible is the courage of gay and lesbian and trans people, uh, to come out. Uh, straight people being allies, um, is important but—but it’s nothing like the courage of these people who know, uh—I remember the first time I went to—in—in 2003, I had become so active with the LGBTQ organizations and the Presbyterian Church, um—in 2003, I went to a—a huge, uh, gathering—a conference called “Witness Our Welcome”. It was held at the University of Pennsylvania, which is my—my alma mater. And, um, it was people of all faiths, um, different religions, uh, gay and le—LGBT groups coming together. And I was a little scared to go because I didn’t quite know how I would relate to—to gay people, uh, you know, on a wider basis [laughs]. And I remember going—oh—oh, there were people out there with their signs. Their hateful signs. Uh, but I remember they had worship every evening in an Episcopal cathedral, uh, right near the campus. And I remember thinking when I went to those services, This is the most joyous worship I had ever been part of in my whole life. Because here were people who knew that God loved them. And they were in a safe place. And they were able to worship with such joy. And, uh, to me, that—that changed everything for me.
And now I have [laughs]—I have gay friends that are Jewish. That are Wiccan. That are any religion or no religion. And they’re all wonderful. And I even have friend that are drag queens [laughs].
Cravero
[laughs].
Howland
Which is kind of fun [laughs].
Cravero
Do you have, um—well, can you talk a little about what role you have in the chorus? And maybe, um, talk about, uh, one of your favorite early productions before, um, the Pulse tragedy. And we’ll talk a little bit about post afterwards.
Howland
Um, [sighs].
Cravero
[clears throat].
Howland
Well, I’m a soprano. I have been an alto all my life. But I’ve sung in—I’ve sung in choirs. Um, and for years I’ve been an alto. And, uh, after I retired from full-time pastoral ministry, um, back in 1998, um—18 years ago now—uh, I found—I didn’t—I didn’t sing in a choir or anything for a while. But I had been participating in a—in a church near where I lived in White Plains, New York. And, uh, they had a group that was getting ready to go to Africa—to Kenya to sing. And, uh, they wanted to sing back to the, uh—the Kenyans, when you come, they always sing for you. They sing and dance. And so we wanted to sing back to them. And so we—we practiced for a year. And I got into this group to go to Kenya for three weeks.
And, um, I guess I was singing soprano ‘cause that’s kind of what they needed. And after I came back from Kenya I decided to join the church choir. And they needed sopranos. And so I became a soprano. And I had never been able to sing that high before. But I tr—we had a marvelous soprano soloist. And I would imitate her. I would try to sing like—like she did. And I was having a marvelous time.
So when I came here and I au—I auditioned for the Orlando Gay Chorus, um, they dec—they thought, Yes. You’re a soprano. We’ll make you a soprano 2. ‘Cause we have soprano 1 and 2, alto 1 and 2, et cetera. And, uh, so I sing soprano and when we s—divide I sing the low soprano part. And every once in a while, I get to sing the high part, too.
Cravero
[laughs].
Howland
And I can sing higher notes than I ever could before. And I’m 83. And it amazes me. We even had a, uh—we—we have these cabarets every once in a while. And twice now, I’ve sung a solo in one of our cabarets. The first year I sang “I Could Have Danced All Night” from My Fair Lady. And, uh, then last year—in fact, it was the night before the Pulse. On June 11th[, 2016], we had this cabaret at the Orlando Museum of Art. And I sang “We Kiss in a Shadow” from, uh, The King and I. And—as a solo. And ah—it was just wonderful because I—here I was at my age singing solos. And I’m even working on one for the next time.
Um, but after the—after the concert—and the thing is, I was able to do it because the people in the chorus were so affirming. And telling me how great it sounded. So I—so I didn’t have to be scared any more. I didn’t have to be nervous any more.
And, uh, that night I had a friend come with me to the Museum of Art. And after it was over, we were hungry. And we were looking for a pizza place. And we didn’t, uh—we thought, Where—where’s a place that’s open that’s—that we can get to? And finally, we decided to go down to—we went down South Orange Avenue past the Pulse to McDonald’s and had hamburgers. And this is—this is just a couple hours before the thing happened. And so at midnight, we’re coming back past the Pulse back to home here. And I—I couldn’t believe it the next morning when I—when I woke up and looked at my phone. And people were saying—and my friends were saying, “Are you safe?” “Are you safe?” “I’m safe. Are you safe?” And, um—and that’s why every single morning since then—every morning when I wake up I—I—I—I remember the Pulse. And think about that morning for six months now.
I was telling you how I got into the chorus. And, uh, it’s—it’s been a marvelous experience. I never in my life ever before memorized all these songs. And then we have choralography they call it, where we—we, you know, do motions and things and—while we’re singing [laughs] all in concert together. Uh, and our productions are not just—i—we’re not just standing there singing like a choir. We’re participating in many different ways. Um, and it’s a real great show and production.
And, uh, I guess I’m really grateful to the Disney people who came to Orlando and helped make Orlando the kind of area where, uh, the arts and all the different kinds of production and everything, uh, were really, uh, i—it was just a place that would attract, uh, creative, uh, wonderful people. And it’s such a place of music and art her in—in Orlando. And i—it’s—it’s just so wonderful how the chorus has become a part of that in the city. The—the chor—the concerts we just had this past weekend, Glad Tidings over at the Plaza Live, we were sold out both nights. And people said it was the best show ever.
And one of the things that’s happened, uh, since—since I’ve been here it’s been happening, but it started before I came here. The Orlando Gay Chorus never was just men. Women came. Lesbians came and wanted to be part of it. And they weren’t really—I don’t think they were really welcomed at first, but they insisted. And—but for 25—for—well, 20, maybe 22, 23 years, it was an—a TTBB : just the tenor and bass, uh, chorus. It was a—it was a men’s chorus that had some women in it, who were singing with men’s voices. They were singing tenor parts. We—we even had a woman who was a bass. And, um, just a couple years before I came here, it became soprano, alto, tenor and bass.
And, um, s—it’s been harder getting as many women in. Uh, and the difference has been y—you know what gay men’s choruses sound like. I remember the first time I hear—I’ve heard gay men’s choruses in different cities. And they have this strong men’s sound. And—which is wonderful. But, um, with the soprano and alto being added to it, uh, and with our—with the current director we have, James [A.] Rode, and Harold Wright, who is his assistant, they are working for something other than the loud gay men’s voice. Instead, uh, it’s much more—the music is much more nuanced. We sing softly. Uh, we sing expressively. Uh, we sing tenderly. Uh, as well as loud [laughs]. We—we do all kinds of—of singing.
And, uh, the chorus has grown in its maturity musically within the last few years. Uh, and I’ve seen it happen. Because I think the first year I was here, we were still a gay men’s chorus in tone. Uh, and, um—and we’re—we’re becoming more—more nuanced. But—but in the last—the last year, even my friends—my musical friends say to me, “Wow. You’re so much better. You’re fabulous.” And I think it’s—it’s really because of the leadership and direction that we’ve had that’s helped us all to find our voices.
And we have al—we have—we have some men altos and women tenors. And—and, uh, uh, it’s been a—a wonderful experience. I’m not sure I remember what I’m supposed to be answering.
Cravero
Oh, I—I think you covered it.
Howland
Okay.
Cravero
And plenty [laughs]. Well, you did mention, um, when you first heard about Pulse that morning. Could you talk a little bit about, um, what you did that Sunday: the day after the tragedy? And…
Howland
Well, it was the day of the tragedy.
Cravero
Right.
Howland
I mean it happened—it started at two minutes after two that morning. And at five o’clock, they were still—I don’t if they were really starting to really get the people out of there. I mean the bodies were still in there. And, um, we—we got a call, um, I—I don’t know—we—we just have this amazing communication [laughs] now with our cellphones. And, um, I heard that we were to be at the, um—the church. The, um, Metropolitan Community Church. The Joy Metropolitan Community Church, uh, which you may know is basically a gay and lesbian organiz—uh, church. Uh, and we were to be there for a service at six o’clock. And I guess we were supposed to be there at five. Uh, and to come in our, uh—in one of our wardrobe things that we wear. And, uh—and sing. And I guess they were waiting to see how many of us showed up and who showed up as to exactly what we would sing. And we didn’t have an accompanist. So some of it was gonna be things that were acapella.
Um, and, um, I had—I had a flat tire on the way there. I—I—I must have hit the curb or something. And I had a flat tire. But thankfully, people in the house fixed the ti—they changed my tire for me. And I got to the church in time. And there was standing room only at the Metropolitan Community Church. Um, there—there were people outside. They broadcast[sic] the service to the outside. And now this—this had happened two o’clock in the morning. That day at six o’clock at this service, there were Metropolitan Community Church pastors from all over Florida. From Tallahassee. And Sarasota. And Miami, who were there for that service. I mean they just came right away. And some of our members had been standing out in lines trying to give blood that afternoon. As there were people—people were standing in line for eight hours that day to give blood. And—and—and then a lot of them came back the next day and gave blood.
Um, we—there wasn’t room for us all to sit down in the church. Uh, so a lot of the chorus members were standing along the side. And we sang two numbers that we didn’t need to have, um accompaniment for. W—we sang—and these were songs that we had just sung in our concert, uh, that—that spring, just a short time before. It was “True Colors” and “You’ll Never Walk Alone”. And those two songs we sang a hundred times after that. Uh, we started having from that day—and—and the very next night was, uh—in the evening was this candlelight vigil with 6,000 people there at the Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center in front of it. Between City Hall and there I could still see that huge, huge crowd of people. And the experience of—of being there.
And at one point, as it was getting dark, they—they began to toll the bells. They began to toll the bell 49 times. And each time they would read the name of someone who had died. And—and there was a man standing next to me. He heard one of the names and he just collapsed. And his friends picked him up and held him. And, uh, people were lighting their candles and listening to the bells and to the—and to the names being—being read. It—there—there were—this—th—there was a woman—there was a woman there who was one of the ministers at the Mother Emanuel Church in Charleston, [South Carolina], where they had the—where nine people had been killed by a gunman just a year before. And this was just—i—it was just a little before—I think that very week they were having a first anniversary. And she came down here to be with us. And the, um—there was also a prayer given by a Muslim imam.
And what I saw that day, the very day after this happened, was—were three things. I saw love. I saw solidarity. And I saw unity. And that’s what they were talking about: “Orlando United”. “Orlando Strong”. And it—it was such a moving thing to be part of an experience and see a city that just came together over this. And—and that day when it happened. On that Sunday. I—I’ve always said that I’m a New Yorker. And I’m proud to be a New Yorker. I’m a Yankee fan. Uh, but I was proud to be an Orlandoan that day. And I—and I—given me such a sense of being part of this community, that is united and strong. And loving and supportive.
And—and I know that there’s people here who, uh, still want to, uh, ridicule and condemn gay people. But, uh—but I think there’s less of them. And I think people are opening up. One of the a—amazing things that’s happened, because I live here in this retirement community, just last night a woman said to me, “You know, I have a daughter who’s gay.” I have another friend—at—the people—because they knew here that I’ve been singing with the Orlando Gay Chorus, there were people who said to me—I remember one woman in tears who said to me, “My granddaughter’s gay. I’m so worried for her.” Because when they realize that—that this attack at the Pulse, uh, hit home to gay people.
And—and, of course, I sing with the Orlando Gay Chorus. We went the following month in July—the beginning of July—only three weeks later—out to Denver, Colorado, for the GALA Festival. The Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses. And we had choruses from all over the world. Mainly from the United States, but other places, too. And, um, people there were—were hugging and kissing us [laughs] all the time. They would say—they would see that we were from Orlando and they’d say, “May I hug you?”
Um, but all around the world people felt this. The same way as my friend whose granddaughter was gay here. And other people who live here who have gay family members who are, uh—who just fear for them, uh, because of this. Uh, and it brought back all the—the tender, um, uh, heart-wrenching, uh, experiences that people have had. And, of course, now with the new president-elect , um, making, uh, bigotry seem more powerful, um, people are feel—feeling the same thing again.
But I—I am so proud of—of the gay community here. And I’m proud, uh, to be considered part of it as an ally. And to be totally accepted, uh, by them. And it’s given me—there were—in the beginning of living here, uh, at what I call here “the Old Folks Home”, I—I was—I did not often wear my t-shirts that say “Orlando Gay Chorus” on them. Uh, because I didn’t want to offend people. But I don’t care anymore. And, uh, I want them to be—if it offends them, fine. We’ll talk about it. And, uh, I want to—I really think I’ve become known here, uh, as—as, uh—as somebody who’s a member of the Orlando Gay Chorus. And, um, I’ve met employees here who are gay. Um, people still are pretty much in the closet. Uh, anybody who’s gay here at this old folks home. But, um—and I’m not outing anybody, but I’m outing myself as an ally. And if they think I’m gay, that’s fine, too. That’s alright.
Cravero
Um, [clears throat] as you, uh—well, you were speaking about some of the vigils. As you reflect on some of your experiences with the vigils, um—well, how many did you participate in afterwards? And is there anything that—that particularly stands out to you from those?
Howland
Well, I probably have participated in 20 or 30 of them. We’ve had 50 or 60. Uh, some, uh—we have four ensembles in the chorus. And some of the—some of the vigils have been done by ensembles because they were the easiest ones to get together. Uh, a lot of them have come just at a few moments notices. Um, I, uh, was—I participated—I had to leave town for 10 days, uh, at the end of June. In between the time the Pulse happened and the GALA Festival out in Denver. Uh, I went to Portland, Oregon, where the Presbyterian Church General Assembly was meeting. And, uh, I’m a very active, uh, participant in, um, uh, working with the Presbyterian Peace Fellowship and other organizations. And with the, uh—the LGBTQ organizations as well out there. Uh, and so I spent a lot of my time telling people out there about, uh, Orlando. So I missed a bunch of the, uh, important outreaches that we had. The memorials. The vigils.
Um, there have been so many of—different kinds. Some of them were fundraising. We sang “True Colors” and—and, uh, “When you walk through the storm." We sang both of those, uh, a great deal. And some other songs as well. Some of us—p—people just carried their—their shirts. We had our Billboard shirts that we usually sing in. And whatever the wardrobe was gonna be people just carried it in their cars so that they’d be available at a moment’s notice.
And I’m—you know, I’m handicapped. I’m—I’m elderly. I use a walker and a cane. And I’m—the—PJ Galas Finster is our, um, stage manager for all kinds of things. And he would always make sure wherever we sang that there was a way—there were people to help me up steps if I had to get up steps. Uh, there was a place I could sit or I would sit in my walker seat. Uh, we—they always arranged to include me in it. And, uh, it was a lot of effort many times to get a parking place and to be able to move, uh, to where we were supposed to sing [door closes]. Uh, it was a tremendous effort for me to keep walking, uh, when I—when I didn’t feel like walking. And, um, because I am physically challenged. But, uh, eh, they—the people in the chorus have done so much to help include me.
Um, some of the things—we had a thing out at, um—at UCF . It was—I think it was the School of Social Work. Maybe there were two different schools together that had a memorial service after people came back to school in—in September. And that was moving. To hear people tell the stories. We sang, um, over at the [Orange County] Convention Center, uh, on International Drive for a first responders breakfast. Um, oh, I had to walk a mile to get to that. Um, the Convention Center’s so huge. I had a terrible time. I couldn’t even find the place. And then when I found it, I had to walk forever inside the building to get to where we were singing.
But then, to be there, uh—the singing—we were gr—we were so grateful that we were able to be there and sing. And give some su—support to them. But then, to hear the stories that were told of what these first responders did for which they were being honored. They were giving out awards that day. Uh, and a bunch of them were for people who were at the Pulse. Uh, and to hear what they went through in, um—and what they did, uh, to, uh—at a danger to themselves. And, um, there was one police—I—I don’t know that he was honored f—for this, but one of the police, uh, responders has—the last I heard, he was still suffering from PTSD from all that he saw—that he just can’t—that he—he—he dreams about it at night. He can’t get it out of his mind. He’s been unable to work.
Um, people don’t realize—a—and—and the stories the doctors—th—the doct—the doctor who had the bloody shoes that he’s never given up and never cleaned. The bloody shoes while he was operating on people. Um, there were so many things that we heard from other people. And, um, I don’t—I don’t—tell—tell me—tell me, have I answered…
Cravero
Oh, absolutely.
Howland
[laughs].
Cravero
Yeah. You’ve—you’ve covered questions I would—I didn’t even have to ask [laughs].
Um, what would you, uh, hope that some of the long-term consequences would be for not only the Orlando gay community, but maybe for the larger city or even the, you know, larger society as a whole, uh, from—from this tragedy?
Howland
Well, I hope people will be kindler[sic]—kinder and gentler. I—I have been so impressed with the spirit that Orlando has had. I mean I just k—keep seeing this “Orlando Strong”, or y—or—course being right down here in Downtown South, where it all happened, um—eh, the—the signs all over the place about “Orlando Strong”.
I mean even—even I wore—I was wearing a Pulse shirt yesterday. I wore my Pulse shirt for the—for the, um, six-month anniversary. And an old woman [laughs] said to me, “Oh. Can—are those still available? Do you think I could get one?” And—and I—I wear t-shirts all the time around here. I’m probably the o—only what that does. I mean occasionally other people wear t-shirts. But I happen to love t-shirts. And—and so I’m very comfortable in them. So I don’t dress up every day. I wear t-shirts. I love t-shirts. And, um, so I have all my t-shirts for solidarity. Uh, and I guess maybe people are able to respond to me because of that.
But, um, I just—I’m impressed. And I’ve seen a spirit in Orlando. I mean even the fact that this past weekend at our concerts that we had of the Orlando Gay Chorus—our holiday concert, um—it—the—it was packed. Full—full house. Both—both times. And there’s—the people who are going out of their way to stand up for the community and for the gay community and for inclusion—people are becoming prouder of who they are. And prouder of their support and solidarity and unity.
And, uh, I think even some of the ultra-conservative Bible Belt people, um, are growing in their understanding. And—and realizing—eh, eh—some of my friends here, um—here at the old folks home ha—were so shocked when they heard about the Pulse. That these young people needed a safe place to be. It was a safe place for them. And they were kind of shocked and chagrinned that young people would need a safe place. But—but we have it here. We have the Zebra Coalition and the Hope and Help Center [of Central Florida]. Uh, all the different groups here in Orlando that are working for—helping people that have—they’re homeless because they’re gay. And I—I think people are coming together more. I—I hate to have to say that a terrible thing like this has been responsible for it, but I think the response of the community is—is strengthening who we are. And I—I hope it can extend more to the rest of the country.
Cravero
I think you’ve covered all of the questions I had for you. Is there any, uh, other final thoughts or anything else you’d like to add that we haven’t discussed yet?
Howland
I think—I think that even though I’m at a stage in my life where things are becoming much more physically difficult for me, um, that the courage that this has given to me, um, is something that I’m grateful for. Uh, and I—I hope I can—I hope I can continue doing as much as I can, uh, for as long as I can. Um, but I—I—I can at least say things and write things. Just today, there came out in the email—I happened to be on the development committee of the Presbyterian Peace Fellowship—that I’ve been an active, uh, participant in, uh, on the serving on the national committee and, uh—for 48 years. Um, we have an advent appeal for funds, uh, eh, in the month before Christmas. And we were doing emails every few says, uh, this month. And I wrote the one last week that came out today in the email. And I wrote it about gun violence.
That’s another thing that I see happening. I see the gay community really getting behind the whole, um, end gen[sic] vi—uh, gun violence movement. And for my—for my little, uh, story that I wrote for the email that came out this morning, um, I told them how every morning I wake up thinking about the Pulse. And if I wake up every morning thinking about that, what is going through the minds of the families, uh, from Charleston[, South Carolina], from Sandy Hook [Elementary School]? These families that lost those precious children. Um, how many people throughout our country are, uh, experiencing these flashbacks, these memories that tug at their hearts? Um, eh, that will never leave them their whole lives of what has happened to them. Uh, and how we all have to, uh, get into this—it—it’s absolutely necessary that we get rid of these assault rifles and that we—we work hard on gun violence. And making sure that—that this—that i—it’s—it’s happening every single day in this country. And we have to do something about it.
And I’m—I’m—I’m happy that, uh, the gay community, that’s a strong community and has a lot to—to, uh—a lot of power and a lot of voice now, um, will—will get into this battle, too, to end gun violence.
Cravero
Peggy, thank you so much for sharing your experiences and thoughts with us today. Um, this has been Geoffrey Cravero with Peggy Howland on Tuesday, December 13th, 2016.
Howland
Thank you.
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
Charleston
choralography
chorus
Denver
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church
FAVO
female clergy
first responders
first responders breakfast
fundraisers
GALA Choruses Festival
Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses
gay marriage
Geoffrey Cravero
Glad Tidings
GLBT
GLBTQ+
gun control
gun regulation
gun violence
Harold Wright
hate crimes
homophobia
homosexuality
Hope and Help Center of Central Florida
I Could Have Danced All Night
James A. Rode
JMCC
Joy Metropolitan Community Church
Kenya
Latinx community
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
Margaret E. "Peggy" Howland
mass shootings
ministers
Mother Emanuel Church
My Fair Lady
Orange County Convention Center
orlando
Orlando Gay Chorus
Orlando Museum of Art
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
outreach events
Park Lake Gay-Straight Partnership
Park Lake Presbyterian Church
PJ Galas Finster
Plaza Live
Portland
post-traumatic stress disorder
Presbyterian
Presbyterian Church General Assembly
Presbyterian Peace Fellowship
PTSD
Pulse massacre
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
Sandy Hook Elementary School
terrorist attacks
The Faith Arts Village of Orlando
The King and I
True Colors
University of Pennsylvania
vigils
We Kiss in a Shadow
Witness Our Welcome
women clergy
You’ll Never Walk Alone
Zebra Coalition
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/c20009fd747d934827e4fb7335c31c26.pdf
0799da4ded85e4da02adc7ea62130277
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Orlando Gay Chorus Collection
Alternative Title
Gay Chorus Collection
Is Part Of
Orlando Gay Chorus Collection, RICHES Program
Type
Collection
Digital Collection
<div class="element-text"><a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a></div>
<div class="element-text"> </div>
Subject
Orlando (Fla.)
Music--Florida
Dance--United States
Gay culture--United States
Description
The Orlando Gay Chorus (OGC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts and humanitarian organization, and part of the Gay and Lesbian Association (GALA) of Choruses. Founded on Valentines Day 1990, OGC is not only one of the largest mixed gay choirs in the United States at over 100 members, but they also boast four smaller ensembles that perform annual concerts, cabarets, and a host of community events, such as Come Out With Pride, Orlando Museum of Art’s Festival of Trees, and World AIDS Day memorial services. In 2017, the group performed at over 105 events, including 15 performances for the first anniversary of the Pulse Nightclub tragedy. Members come from all walks of life and all sexual and gender orientations, including straight allies. OGC lives by the motto “Singing the World to a Better Place” and strives to use music to change attitudes and build a stronger community.
Oral History
A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Oral History of Emmanuel J. Agon Kresky
Alternative Title
Oral History, Emmanuel J. Agon Kresky
Subject
Orlando (Fla.)
Music--Florida
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Gay culture--United States
Description
An oral history interview of Emmanuel J. Agon Kresky, a member of the Orlando Gay Chorus. The interview was conducted by Sarah Schneider at the University of Central Florida Center for Emerging Media in Orlando, Florida, on November 17th, 2016. Some of the topics covered include joining the Orlando Gay Chorus, his favorite productions, the 2012 and 2016 Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses festivals, the mass shooting at Pulse nightclub, the Orlando Gay Chorus’s response to the Pulse tragedy, the community, national and international responses to the Pulse tragedy, the significance of Pulse before and after the tragedy, the role of social media in the aftermath of the tragedy, and the long-term consequences of the tragedy.
Table Of Contents
0:00:00 Joining the Orlando Gay Chorus and favorite productions <br />0:02:51 Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses festival <br />0:05:12 Mass shooting at Pulse nightclub <br />0:09:43 Orlando Gay Chorus’s response to Pulse tragedy <br />0:20:11 Community response to Pulse tragedy <br />0:22:31 National and international response to Pulse tragedy <br />0:24:57 2016 Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses festival <br />0:29:10 Significance of Pulse before and after tragedy <br />0:32:57 Role of social media in aftermath of tragedy <br />0:36:23 Long-term consequences of Pulse tragedy <br />0:38:52 Closing remarks
Abstract
Oral history interview of Emmanuel J. Agon Kresky. Interview conducted by Sarah Schneider in Orlando, Florida, on November 17, 2016.
Type
Moving Image
Source
Kresky, Emmanuel J. Agon. Interviewed by Sarah Schneider, November 17, 2016. Audio record available. <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, Orlando, Florida.
Requires
Multimedia software, such as <a href="http://www.apple.com/quicktime/download/" target="_blank"> QuickTime</a>.
<a href="http://www.adobe.com/products/reader.html" target="_blank">Adobe Acrobat Reader</a>
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/206" target="_blank">Orlando Gay Chorus Collection</a>, LGBTQ+ Collection, RICHES of Central Florida.
Has Format
Digital transcript of original 40-minute, and 37-second oral history: Kresky, Emmanuel J. Agon. Interviewed by Sarah Schneider. Audio record available. <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, Orlando, Florida.
Coverage
Cathedral Church of St. Luke, Orlando, Florida
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando, Florida
GALA Choruses Festival, Denver Performing Arts Center, Denver, Colorado
Lake Eola Park, Orlando, Florida
Orlando, Florida
Camping World Stadium, Orlando, Florida
Parliament House, Orlando, Florida
Publix Supermarkets, Inc., Orlando, Florida
Pulse nightclub, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Kresky, Emmanuel J. Agon
Schneider, Sarah
Publisher
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-11-17
Date Copyrighted
2016-11-17
Format
video/mp4
application/pdf
Extent
1.17 GB
Medium
40-minute and 37-second audio recording
16-page digital transcript
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Music Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Emmanuel J. Agon Kresky and Sarah Schneider and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Ahlquist, Karen. <a href="http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/62281651" target="_blank"><em>Chorus and Community</em></a>. Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 2006.
Boedeker, Hal. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/features/os-orlando-gay-chorus-25-years-20150611-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando Gay Chorus marks 25 years</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, October 18, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/features/os-orlando-gay-chorus-25-years-20150611-story.html.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Hyman, Jamie. "<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/2016/06/16/community-rises-mass-shooting-orlando-gay-nightclub-kills-49/" target="_blank">Community rises up after mass shooting at Orlando gay nightclub kills 49</a>." <em>Watermark</em>, June 16, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.watermarkonline.com/2016/06/16/community-rises-mass-shooting-orlando-gay-nightclub-kills-49/.
Click to View (Movie, Podcast, or Website)
<a href="https://youtu.be/KGGSKVhkBrg" target="_blank">Oral History of Emmanuel "Manny" J. Agon Kresky</a>
Transcript
<p><strong>Schneider <br /></strong>[<em>beep</em>] Today is Thursday, November 17<sup>th</sup>, 2016. My name is Sarah Schneider and I am conducting an oral history interview with Manny [Emmanuel J.] Agon Kresky of the Orlando Gay Chorus. The interview is being conducted at the UCF [University of Central Florida] Center for Emerging Media in Orlando, Florida.</p>
<p>So thank you for being here today.</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>And can you start off by telling us your name please?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Sure. Um, my—my full name is Emmanuel. Emmanuel J. Agon Kresky.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Thank you. And to start off, can you tell us where were you born and how long have you lived in Orlando?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Um, I was born in South Florida. I was born—born in Hollywood, um—Hollywood, Florida. My parents lived in Dania Beach[, Florida]. Um, grew up in South Florida and went to college in [Washington,] D.C. After college, I went back to South Florida. And then moved to Orlando[, Florida] in, um, maybe 1998 or so. 1998 or 1999.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Okay. And how long have you been a part of the Orlando Gay Chorus?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Since, um, early 2000s. So maybe like 2003. I’d have to double check, but I think around 2002, 2003.</p>
<p><strong>Schenider<br /></strong>And what brought you to join the chorus?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>] Um, let’s see. I had—I had sung with, um, Candlelight—uh, the Candlelight, uh, Processional over at Epcot. I sang with cast choir there. And after performing with Disney, I kind of wanted to continue singing after the holidays. And I had attended one or two OGC[1] concerts. And, um, I auditioned after maybe the second time seeing them perform.</p>
<p><strong>Schenider<br /></strong>Okay. And, um, can you tell us about some of your favorite productions or…</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…performances you had?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Um, sure. So the—the—the holiday concerts always[sic] the most popular ones. The ones that people get, uh, most excited about. Um, I think my personal favorite was the one that had the format of a radio show. And so there was an MC[2] and, um, it was like a broadcasted concert. It was like a, um—it was—it was more structured. Um, it was a more structured concert.</p>
<p>Another one that I—that—that sticks out in my mind was one of the earlier ones. And it was called, um, “From Sissies to Superstars”. And it told the story of Oliver Button. I think that was his name. Oliver Button. And, um, it told of a story of a—of a—of a kid who was a little different. Um, and how he navigated through some challenges in his life.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mm. Um, and have you participated in the GALA[3] events?
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Yes. I go—for whatever reason, I did not go to the ones that were actually closer to home. So there’s one in Tampa[, Florida] and there was one in Miami[, Florida]. Uh, I didn’t go to those. Um, my first GALA festival was in Denver in 2012. And we returned this year, um, to—to Denver for the 2016 festival.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>So you—you have—you’ve been there twice for GALA events.</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Yes.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>[inaudible].</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Yes. Even though I have been in the chorus for longer, for whatever reason I, um, did not join the rest of the chorus members by doing the festival up until 2012.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm. And, um, what has your experience at the GALA events be[sic] like—been like? Can you tell me a little bit more about what that event is like?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>2012 and 2016 were very different. Um, and a big part of that was because of Pulse[4]. Um, it was just very, eh—eh, [<em>sighs</em>]—it was—it was affirming. It was humbling. Um, there were—there were just a lot of random people who’d come up to us. And because they knew that we were from Orlando, they would give us words of encouragement. They would hug us. Um, they would thank us for coming. Um, it was just very—very humbling.</p>
<p>Um, 2012, being that it was my first GALA, was a different experience, where it was like, “Oh, my god. I can’t believe this is my first year coming. I don’t know why I didn’t go to the one in Tampa. I don’t know why I didn’t go to the one in Miami.” Um, we did a great set. It was just very uplifting to be surrounded by so many likeminded people. And i—in 2012, it was just a more joyous celeb—celebratory kind of feel to it. It was also when I started dating Nick [Nicholas Agon Kresky]. So, um, that will always have a very, um, you know—an important, uh, piece of my heart. Uh, 2012.</p>
<p>But, yeah. Two very different experiences. Uh, both great experiences. Just very different.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, and so, getting to Pulse, um, can you tell us how you first heard about what happened?
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Yeah. So, um, I guess it was Sunday morning. Um, I—Nick had already gone—Nick, my husband, had already gone to work at Universal [Studios Florida]. We were having some work done upstairs in our house, so we were sleeping downstairs. For whatever reason, I checked my iPhone from work. Um, I don’t always do that on the weekends. Um, but for whatever reason, I did. I hope my boss isn’t watching this because I—I check my iPhone all the time [inaudible] [<em>laughs</em>]. Um, so i—the —for whatever reason, I—I—I scroll through, uh, my messages. And I work for an online travel agency. And there was a message from one of our operational, um, departments—is—mi—mentioning that there was an incident. And, um, they were trying to ascertain whether or not any of the travelers that booked through our website were impacted by it.</p>
<p>And so be—this was before we knew the extent of it. We knew that there was a shooting. We didn’t know that—how many people were injured. How many people were dead. Um, and then—so, um, I read it. I didn’t—again, not knowing that it was a terrorist or it’s somebody who is mentally disturbed, um, I—I knew that the operations people were looking, um—looking into it.</p>
<p>Um, I didn’t think that anyone that I—I knew would have been at the club at the time of the day—or time of night. Um, and then—so I think I sent out a few emails to my hotel partners saying, “Hey. Um, I heard there was a shooting. I hope every—all of your guests are okay.” And then I—I didn’t really put that much thought into it.</p>
<p>Um, later that same morning, I started getting texts and Facebook messages from—from my friends outside of Florida asking if I was alright. And, um, you know, wishing that I was safe. And, um, telling like that they hope I’m doing well. And just—you’re kind of like awestruck. It’s like I—why is this happening [<em>laughs</em>]? Like who—uh, why are people reaching out? Again, not knowing the extent of how many people lost their lives. How many were injured at, um—at Pulse.</p>
<p>Eh, gr—I grew up in South Florida. Went to school in [Washington,] D.C. So, sad to say, shootings were not unheard of. And so, again, not realizing the extent of the damage that was done to the patrons that were there. Um, to the community. Just mindboggling. And then, um, you know, I started watching the news. The—you know, it’s hard to go back to sleep. Right? So you [<em>laughs</em>]—you watch the news. And then, um, just kept the TV on. And then, you know, more messages, um, about what’s going on.</p>
<p>And, uh, I think I worked—I had to work that day, so, um, we were hearing about—I think one of the West Coast cities was having their pride event. And there might have been some hubbub about, um, somebody, eh, going to one of their pride events with maybe ammunition—with guns in their car. Wondering what the extent of this attack was going to be. Again, at—at this time, we don’t—I don’t think we knew that much information on—no—I don’t think we knew the—who the perpetrator was on Sunday afternoon.</p>
<p>So just very—you know i—it was just not anything that I could relate to. Like 9/11[5], like I was—I was born. I mean I was—I was alive during 9/11. But it was—it was much more remote. Right? Um, and this one hit a lot closer to home. Because while—while I don’t think I knew anyone there that night, I knew that pe—other people did.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm. And so can you tell me a little bit about the Orlando Gay Chorus’s response, um, in the days and weeks following the shooting?
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Yeah. So, um, I think Carol Studer,[6] um, and J.D. Casto[7] were just on top of it—on top of everything. So there were many requests for us to, um—to perform at various events. It was—you—there were so many—there was—it was—it was almost impossible if you had a, um—i—if you have a job or other commitments that you could actually make every event. Um, because the chorus was, eh, pretty much in high demand. And, um, y—you know, some were m—more uplifting than others. Right? So there were, eh—the—the ones—the—Cory [Connell]’s outside of Publix [Supermarkets, Inc.] was—was hard because, um, it was unlike some of the other ones where we were trying to raise awareness or create a sense of community or strengthen the sense of community or raise money or something like that. It was like, <em>We’re at somebody’s memorial service</em>. Um, you know, quite—quite sobering for that.</p>
<p>Um, so there was—there was Cory’s event. Um, there was the—there was prayer vigil at the cathedral that we go to. The Episcopal cathedral that we—we go to. [Cathedral Church of] St. Luke’s. We went to that. There were two events over at Dr. Phillips Center [for the Performing Arts]. One that was put on by the local arts community, um, and one that was actually, uh, Broadway folks. They came down from New York for a fundraiser. Um, more recently, there was a vigil, um, actually at Pulse. And, um, some of the survivors, uh, w—were—were invited. And it was the first time back at Pulse for many of them. Um, and up until that time, nobody could go through the fence. Um, but that night that we were there, uh, they opened up the fence and we actually, um, sang inside—inside the—the fence.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>And what were you feeling and thinking as that was going on? What was that—the atmosphere like at that—what you just described?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Um, I mean we can’t feel—I mean i—it’s like—it’s—it’s—I—I guess the only thing I can equate it to would be if you’re going to—if you’re going to a place of worship and regardless of whether it’s your church or somebody else’s church or synagogue, um, you—y—you j—you just know enough to be respectful. And then you, um, you know, talk in hushed tones. And you can smile at your friends, but you’re not—it’s not necessarily a time to be joyous per se. Or happy per se.</p>
<p>Um, it was, um—they had—they had murals on the wall. They had, um, eh, i—th—I don’t think it was—it was a permanent mural. It was more like a canvas or paper. I’m not sure exactly what the material was. But people were saying their goodbyes or writing down the names of their loved ones. Um, and it was—we were honored to be there. Uh, but it was very, um—I don’t know if sobering is the word. It’s kind of—I hope your other interviewees are much more articulate than I am [<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>I—it was—it was—it was—we were honored to be there. We were honored to be there. And we, um—we—we sang “True Colors”, which is fitting for the event. Um, another one that we didn’t sing that night, but, um, “You’ll Never Walk Alone”. Those seem to be the—the two most requested songs from us. Or—or the ones that we seemed to be the most appropriate for the type of event. [inaudible].</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, and do you have any other moments in those vigils or memorial services that stand out to you? Um, or things about them that you think—or you’d like to share?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>The, um—the—the church we go to—the cathedral—St. Luke’s Cathedral did a—did a wonderful, um—wonderful job, um, of—and I think there—there was media there, so there might be—there might be a t—a tape or something of it. Uh, of that night. But it was sh—they—they had one candle on the altar for each and every single victim. They had 49 candles. Each candle was—was different. No two candles were alike. Um, it was very—i—it was very nice. It was very, um—it was something that only like the cathedral could do because there was a sense of, um, kind of pageantry to it. But so tasteful. And so respectful. And just—just—it was—it—I felt that it was the right, um, um—th—the right, uh, feel to it. If that makes sense.</p>
<p>Um, later that night, after we had cleared out of the cathedral, they had a vigil on Lake Eola. So this might have been [<em>sighs</em>] a week. The Sunday after Pulse. Right? A week after. Um, the vigil at Dr. Phillips [Center for the Performing Arts] on the lawn the day after Pulse, um—I—I was not able to make it because I had to work. Uh, Nick [Nicholas Agon Kresky] went, but I was unable to make it. So, um, fo—for me, that was like the big, massive gathering event where you could actually—after leaving the cathedral, we walked over to Lake Eola, which is just maybe a block away. And then you could see the entire border of the lake surrounded with people with candles.</p>
<p>Um, it was just very nice to see that many people come together. Whether it was the LGBT community. Whether it was the Latinx community, um, coming together. Whether it was just people who wanted to put an end to gun violence. It was just really nice to see the—the city coming together. That probably stuck out the most.</p>
<p>Um, another one actually that sticks out—not a vigil. Much more, um, joyous, um, was actually Orlando City Soccer [Club]. Like I never thought I enjoyed soccer until we were invited to sing at the halftime show. And they had the entire, um, stadium decked out in a rainbow. So it was one section was red, next one was orange. All the way around. And they had 49 seats up in the bleachers left empty for, um, the victims of the shooting. And there was a candle—or not a candle, but a balloon on each of the seat[sic] to commemorate them. And you could see those balloons from anywhere in the stadium. It was just very—it was very nice to see. Um, I think it was 49 minutes into the game. They actually stopped the game for a moment of silence. So—never was interested in soccer before [<em>laughs</em>]. It’s like, <em>Wow. I really like soccer now. And I really like this team</em>. Because I think that was the first, um, major sports event after the Pulse shooting. I think it was the—I think it was the Saturday after Pulse that they did that. Then they had their—their game.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>And what did you think about singing in the stadium? What was tha—what’d that feel like—the actual performance element?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Um, [<em>laughs</em>] from a—from a technical standpoint, there were some learnings[sic]. Um, there was a—I guess there’s a delay. So I don’t know how we sounded. The people that saw us on TV soun—heard—uh, said th—that, uh—that we sounded—we sounded good. Um, i—it was very welcoming. I never—I’ve never necessarily been the victim of—of—of a hate crime. I’ve never, eh—I don’t believe that I’ve been discriminated before in the past because of my, um, sexual orientation as an adult. And I don’t—in Orlando, I don’t really expect that anyway. Um, but these soccer fans seemed very, very welcoming. And there were just so many rainbow flags that night at the soccer stadium you would have thought it was a Pride event. Um, it was just very uplifting. Very affirming. Uh, very welcoming. Yeah.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>And what did you think about, um, the reaction of the community—the local community to what had happened? You touched on this a little bit already…
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…but is there anything else you—you had thought or—or felt in the communi—in response—the community’s reaction?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Eh, um, i—it—it’s unfortunate it takes something like this to actually bring people together. Um, but—but in a—in a sense that’s—that’s what happened. People came together. And, um, I think, you know, i—the people at—the people at work kind of gave me my space, um, because [inaudible] go through all sorts of emotions. I think every day for a week I cried at some point. Listening to the radio. Watching TV. Talking to somebody. I would—I would cheer up inevitably. Um, in the car on my way to work. And—and occasionally, I’ll watch a clip or something on YouTube and I’ll start tearing up. People would just say, “Hey. If you need somebody to talk to, I’m here.”<br /><br />Um, the week following the incident, I reached out—well, I didn’t take any time off. I just continued my work. But I have some gay partners. I—I work for an online travel agency, so we have, uh, partners that are—that work in hotels. And I reached out to all my—my gay friends [<em>laughs</em>] that worked in hotels. And it just been m—meet with them—one—one for lunch. Um, you know, ‘cause you never know when somebody’s not gonna be there anymore. So it was a—a nice time to reconnect and kind of, um—kind of reconnect. And then I—kind of like process together. And thank God for Nick. Because y—you know, we have each other to make—to try to make sense of it all. Um, not that we did make sense of it, but th—we have each other to—to lean on, which I was very grateful for.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>And, um, what did you think about reactions to the Pulse shooting from people outside of the local community? So either nationally or even internationally. Um, did you s—did you feel any of that or think about that?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Yeah. I—I think w—[<em>sighs</em>] you know, when I would cheer up in the car or watching TV or—or YouTube, it wasn’t really tears of sadness. I think it was just feeling the love from the other—the other cities. Um, seeing pictures of, you know, the White House decked out in rainbow colors. The Sydney Opera House. All these, um, landmarks. And seeing them as just from the people around the world sending their love to Orlando.</p>
<p>Um, the other—I work for Expedia. That’s the online travel agency. I’m not sure if you have to edit it—that out. But, um, the other Expedia offices, um, sent us, you know, “We Love Orlando” signs. And they took a picture of their, um—of their team holding up rainbow flags, banners and stuff like that. It’s—it’s quite unfortunate that after—after Pulse, you know, we were doing the same thing for the offices in France. And I think there was—there was[sic] a few with gun violence and terrorist attacks in Europe that we—we did the same for them. Right? Um, because you never think it’s gonna happen to your—your—your own city. Right? There was New York. There was Boston. We might be a big—“big-ish” city, but we’re not the same par as the size of those cities. Right? So you don’t think that we would be a target for—for a terrorist attack.</p>
<p>Um, but yeah. The—the f—oh, my God. And talk about Festival GALA, you know, just—the love that we got from there—from—from our fellow choruses from around the world. They had these huge banners. Um, “We Are With You, Orlando”. “We Are Orlando”. Just like huge banners. Um, I think one’s at the [Orange County Regional] History Center. But probably—I don’t know. It seems like the length of this—of this room out there in the other room on the—in the foyer area. Um, just lots of love from the other cities.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm. And, um, what else did you i—I know you talked about how different 2012 and 2016 were at the GALA events, but can you say more about, um, what the 2016 event was like and—and, um, yeah—how Pulse impacted…</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Yeah. So…</p>
<p><strong>Schenider<br /></strong>…that experience?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>…um, we had—we had gone into, um—into rehearsals with a totally different set. Um, and Nick is actually probably a little better versed at talking about what we actually intended to sing originally before Pulse. After Pulse, it’s like, <em>Okay. W—we—this set does not—is not fitting anymore. We need to have a new set. </em>And we came up with a new set.</p>
<p>Um, so “True Colors” again. It was probably the song that we sung[sic] most often at the—at the events. And then we ended with, um, “You’ll Never Walk Alone”.[8] And I hope there’s a—I—I know there is on YouTube, um, our director speaking to the audience.[9] Packed audience. Um, when we performed there were people who tried to get in that couldn’t. Um, everyone wanted to see Orlando from what they tell us. But there was—we—we—he spoke about what it was like waking up that morning. Um, similar—similar experience. Like, <em>Why are these people contacting me? Why—why am I getting all these texts? Why am I getting all these Facebook messages?</em></p>
<p>Um, and we were just a mess. The chorus members [<em>laughs</em>] were just like trying to hold it together. We had gotten through almost every song. We knew that “You’ll Never Walk Alone”, um, was—was gonna be the next song. And it was just—it was—it was very hard to—to—to get through his introduction of that song. Um, and then when we sang, he had invited the entire, um, audience to sing along with us. Because there was no way we were getting through that song without crying if we weren’t already crying. Um, and then we ended on a—on a different song after that to kind of show people that, y—you know, Pulse is not—I think Mayor [John Hugh “Buddy”] Dyer said that Pulse is not going to define us. We weren’t gonna end on a sad song. Right? “You’ll Never Walk Alone” can be a little, um, solitary. It’s a little melancholy. So we ended with up with, uh, “We Are Family”. And then we had pink boas and pink glasses and little things in our hair. And it was just a—a—a—a fun number to end on.</p>
<p>Um, but yeah. Eh, tha—I think [<em>sighs</em>], uh, that was, um—eh, I—they—they said that the s—our set was the set that everyone was trying to get into to see.</p>
<p>And then the other—the other choruses actually—many of them made reference to, uh, the gun violence or homophobia or, um, something along those lines in their own set. And they made—a lot of times, they made mention of it. Um, now that I think about it—because while we performed, we’d also watch other people perform as well.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>And, um, was there anything else you wanted to say about the interactions between you and members of the other gay—uh, the other choruses at that event, you know, outside of the performance?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Was there anything else…</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Yeah.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider</strong> …you heard from people?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Um, just a lot of—a lot of hugs from random people [<em>laughs</em><span style="text-decoration:underline;">]</span>. I—so I, um—I’m not always the most “huggy” person [<em>laughs</em>]. So it’s like, <em>Oh! Why are you hugging me?</em> Um, but no. It was, um—I—I—I always appreciate when people say, “Can I hug you?” Or “May I…” It’s like, <em>Sure.</em> You know? I know it’s coming. Um, but yeah. There was[sic] a lot of people who wanted to welcome us. To thank us for being there. Reaffirming.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mm. And I’m curious what the, um—Pulse as a place—if it meant anything to you as a place before what happened. And if now i—it has any significance in your mind as a location and site.
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Yeah. So, um, I was, um—I am acquainted with one of the old managers there. Uh, with Ron Legler. I—I met him through Florida Theatrical Association. And so, um, he—he moved to Baltimore[, Maryland] a—a little while ago. I don’t know that I’ve been to Pulse since he left Orlando. Um, so for me, I—I’ve been a few times. Usually as his guest. Um, it’s not a place where I f—I frequented. It was no—my—my place was actually Parliament—uh, not—well, Parliament House nowadays. But, um, back—back when I was younger, um, we used to go to Pleasure Island [Walt Disney World Resort] on Thursdays. So it was usually [<em>laughs</em>] in—in my twenties—in my late-twenties, it was Pleasure Island on Thursday and Southern Nights on Friday. And then Saturday night: Parliament House. On those rotations that I went out every single night of the weekend. I don’t do that anymore. Um, now it’s like maybe once a month there’s a show over at Parliament House we wanna see. We’ll go to Parliament House.</p>
<p>Um, so, eh, Pulse kind of opened up—kind of as—as—kind of off of that “go every weekend” kind of phase of my life. Um, but Ron’s partner, Andrew—Andrew Springer, had his birthday party there. So there was a reason to go to Pulse. Right? Um, so if there was a birthday party. If there were friends coming in from out of town, then we might go to Pulse.</p>
<p>Um, I—I think some of the—some of the stuff that the newscasters said after Pulse could be true for any of the gay clubs. That it was a safe place. That for many in the community, it was, you know, their place of worship if you will. I thought that was a change—it was strange, um—a strange, uh, term to use. But I—I know that a number of people have used gay clubs in general as a—as a—as a—as their place of worship. As their church. Um, so I—I appreciate it for that. Um, for that aspect of it. While it wasn’t necessarily my place of worship, um, I do respect it for being a safe place where people would gather. Where people would feel safe. Um, where people can be their—themselves. Right? Um, yeah.</p>
<p>And now that I’m older, it’s like I don’t know that I can stay out past midnight [<em>laughs</em>]. So I—had I been out, I think I would’ve been in bed way before—way before 1:45 at that point.</p>
<p>But if it was—you know, as you think about how if it wasn’t Pulse and if it was Parlia—and if it was Parliament House. And if it wasn’t 1:45, but it was twelve midnight or something like that, it could have been any one of us. Right? Um, you never know.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, you mentioned briefly, um, Facebook and things like that. People contacting you after it happened. Did you see social media playing any response in—or any, um, part in the time following the shooting in people’s response to the shooting? Or did you feel like that wasn’t really a big part of—of people’s reactions?
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Before Pulse, I never knew that there was a feature on Facebook to mark yourself safe. And while I was appreciative of that so I can see which of my friends were, um—were safe, I was like, <em>Oh, my God. Why is this even necessary? Or like what kind of world to we live in that this is necessary that they built this?</em> Um, I don’t know—eh, you know, I like to think that, for the most part, Facebook is—is neutral. And so I don’t know that they did anything to either, um, promote awareness about Pulse or downplay it. Um, obviously, so much of what we see on Facebook is just who we decide to follow on Facebook. Um, so lo—lots of posts from, um—lots—lots of posts about, um—from—from other—from other cities wishing us well. From other gay choruses wishing us well. Um, lots of that stuff, which was quite uplifting.</p>
<p>Um, eh, there were th—you know, there were the—the pictures of—of the outside of Pulse. As people were driving by. Um, I—I never visited either the hospital or Pulse while the memorials were up. Before, eh, the [Orange County] Regional History Center started protecting the—the—the stuff left behind. Um, but there was[sic] many pictures of the memorials were laid out. Either—and there was actually—they were laying stuff out on the lawn, too, of Dr. Phillips. Um, so saw many pictures of that on Facebook as well.</p>
<p>It was helpful to find out, you know—to promote certain things. Like, um, the little arts organizations did the “Beautiful Together” event over at Dr. Phillips. So there was lots of, um, you know, <em>We’re trying to—to—to promote the event. And then so, you know, we’re sharing stuff on Facebook.</em> Um, [<em>laughs</em>] I don’t know how much of it you could share for the—for the—“From Broadway with Love[: A Benefit Concert for Orlando]” because I think that the event sold out almost immediately. Um, but there was—there were[sic] lots of mention about who’s coming to the event and who confirmed. And, um, during the event and after the event, lots of pictures of—of—of, you know, the celebrities interacting with the—with the locals, which was nice to see.</p>
<p>Yeah. But for the most part, I think that—I like to think that Facebook is pretty neut—neutral. And then, uh—it’s just a tool that we use, in that, you know, we’re—we’re—we see [<em>door closes</em>] what we choose to see and who we choose to follow on Facebook.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Do you have any thoughts about the long-term impact of Pulse, um, and the shooting, whether the impact, um—what—let me—let me s—ask that question again. What would you think the long-term consequences of the shooting might be for the Orlando gay community and for the larger City of Orlando?
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Um, gun control reform I think would be a big one. I—y—you know, the perpetrator wasn’t from Orlando. He came from outside of Orlando. So I think that just educating people I think would help. Um, but, you know—but then, you know, we wonder like, <em>Okay. Are—do we need to go outside of Orlando to educate people there? </em>Um, you know, when somebody shoots somebody like what’s—in any fashion, it’s like, <em>What the heck’s going through their mind?</em> Like <em>H—where did this come from? Where did this hate come from? Where’d this ignorance come—came—come from?</em> And y—you like—we can’t always dictate how people think. I don’t think we should dictate what people think. But I think that we can—we—we can put laws in place that prevent massive harm through—through assault rifles. Through guns. Through gun violence. Whatever. Um, I think they go hand in hand. I think we need more [<em>sighs</em>], um—I think we need gun control that makes sense. I think we need to—to reform some of the stuff that we have out there. Um, but at the same time, I think we need to continue to educate. Um, part of our mission statement for the—for the Orlando Gay Chorus is about changing people’s hearts and people’s minds. And I think that we need to continue doing that so that this doesn’t happen in the future.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, do you have any other reflections about the Pulse shooting or about your i—involvement in the Orlando Gay Chorus or anything else you’d like to talk about?
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Um, I w—I’m appreciative of you—being given the opportunity to do this. Um, the chorus has been—you know, it’s family. It can be dysfunctional. We don’t always get along. There’s sibling rivalry. Um, but we’re lucky in the sense that we had a family to fall back on. And we had our own support group. I don’t know how many other people, um, have that luxury. Right? Um, that have the ability to—to seek the support of someone as easily as we had it. Um, we’re—we’re able to be there for each other. We’re—we’re definitely very appreciative of that. Um, you know? So i—this would’ve been totally different if it wasn’t for the chorus I think. And if it wasn’t for Nick. Um, yeah.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Well, is there anything else you didn’t talk about that you’d like to share?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Um, I’m sure I’ll think of something as soon as you turn off the camera. But [<em>laughs</em>] for…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>[inaudible].</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>…right now, I’m good.</p>
<p><strong>Schenider<br /></strong>Okay. Well, thank you so much for participating and sharing your story with us. We really appreciate it.</p>
<strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Yeah.
<div><br /><div>
<p>[1] Orlando Gay Chorus</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[2] Master of Ceremonies</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[3] Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[4] 2016 Orlando nightclub shooting</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[5] September 11 attacks</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[6] Vice President of Orlando Gay Chorus</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[7] Public Relations and Marketing for the Orlando Gay Chorus</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[8] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ClS4TKtZMk4</p>
</div>
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<p>[9] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U1urPSxm7Gc</p>
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</div>
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
Andrew Springer
Beautiful Together
Candlelight Processional
Carol Studer
Cathedral Church of St. Luke
Cory Connell
Denver
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Emmanuel "Manny" J. Agon Kresky
Epcot
Expedia, Inc.
Expedia.com
Facebook
From Broadway with Love: A Benefit Concert for Orlando
From Sissies to Superstars
fundraisers
GALA Choruses Festival
Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses
GLBT
gun control
gun regulation
gun violence
hate crimes
homophobia
homosexuality
J.D. Casto
John Hugh “Buddy” Dyer
Lake Eola Park
Latinx community
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
mass shootings
Nicholas Agon Kresky
Oliver Button
Orange County Regional History Center
orlando
Orlando City Soccer Club
Orlando Gay Chorus
outreach events
Parliament House
Pleasure Island (Walt Disney World)
Publix Supermarkets, Inc.
Pulse massacre
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
rainbow flags
Ron Legler
Sarah Schneider
social media
Southern Nights
Sydney Opera House
terrorist attacks
True Colors
University of Central Florida Center for Emerging Media
vigils
We Are Family
White House
You’ll Never Walk Alone
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/db109e8ff003ee2355b67f4d868179cf.pdf
37c2dfdfddbae25e6058a32dc212224d
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Orlando Gay Chorus Collection
Alternative Title
Gay Chorus Collection
Is Part Of
Orlando Gay Chorus Collection, RICHES Program
Type
Collection
Digital Collection
<div class="element-text"><a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a></div>
<div class="element-text"> </div>
Subject
Orlando (Fla.)
Music--Florida
Dance--United States
Gay culture--United States
Description
The Orlando Gay Chorus (OGC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts and humanitarian organization, and part of the Gay and Lesbian Association (GALA) of Choruses. Founded on Valentines Day 1990, OGC is not only one of the largest mixed gay choirs in the United States at over 100 members, but they also boast four smaller ensembles that perform annual concerts, cabarets, and a host of community events, such as Come Out With Pride, Orlando Museum of Art’s Festival of Trees, and World AIDS Day memorial services. In 2017, the group performed at over 105 events, including 15 performances for the first anniversary of the Pulse Nightclub tragedy. Members come from all walks of life and all sexual and gender orientations, including straight allies. OGC lives by the motto “Singing the World to a Better Place” and strives to use music to change attitudes and build a stronger community.
Oral History
A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Oral History of Nicholas Agon Kresky
Alternative Title
Oral History, Nicholas Agon Kresky
Subject
Orlando (Fla.)
Music--Florida
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Gay culture--United States
Description
An oral history interview of Nicholas Agon Kresky, a member of the Orlando Gay Chorus who serves on the chorus’s Music and Artistic Development Committee. The interview was conducted by Sarah Schneider at the University of Central Florida Center for Emerging Media in Orlando, Florida, on November 17th, 2016. Some of the topics covered include joining the Orlando Gay Chorus, his favorite productions, the 2012 Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses (GALA) festival, the mass shooting at Pulse nightclub, the Orlando Gay Chorus’s response to the Pulse tragedy, the community response to the Pulse tragedy, pet therapy, the national response to the Pulse tragedy, the 2016 Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses (GALA) festival, support from other gay choruses, the significance of Pulse before and after the tragedy, the role of social media in the aftermath of the tragedy, and the long-term consequences of the Pulse tragedy.
Table Of Contents
0:00:00 Joining the Orlando Gay Chorus and favorite productions <br />0:02:15 2012 Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses festival <br />0:03:22 Mass shooting at Pulse nightclub and its aftermath <br />0:06:03 Orlando Gay Chorus’s response to Pulse tragedy <br />0:09:04 Community response to Pulse tragedy <br />0:10:18 Pet therapy <br />0:11:55 National response to Pulse tragedy <br />0:14:05 2016 Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses festival <br />0:18:38 Support from other gay choruses <br />0:19:49 Significance of Pulse before and after tragedy <br />0:22:43 Role of social media in aftermath of tragedy <br />0:23:54 Long-term consequences of Pulse tragedy <br />0:25:45 Closing remarks
Abstract
Oral history interview of Nicholas Agon Kresky. Interview conducted by Sarah Schneider in Orlando, Florida, on November 17, 2016.
Type
Moving Image
Source
Kresky, Nicholas Agon. Interviewed by Sarah Schneider, November 17, 2016. Audio record available. <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, Orlando, Florida.
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Multimedia software, such as <a href="http://www.apple.com/quicktime/download/" target="_blank"> QuickTime</a>.
<a href="http://www.adobe.com/products/reader.html" target="_blank">Adobe Acrobat Reader</a>
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/206" target="_blank">Orlando Gay Chorus Collection</a>, LGBTQ+ Collection, RICHES of Central Florida.
Has Format
Digital transcript of original 27-minute, and 00-second oral history: Kresky, Nicholas Agon. Interviewed by Sarah Schneider. Audio record available. <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, Orlando, Florida.
Coverage
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando, Florida
GALA Choruses Festival, Denver Performing Arts Center, Denver, Colorado
Orlando, Florida
Pulse nightclub, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Kresky, Nicholas Agon
Schneider, Sarah
Publisher
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-11-17
Date Copyrighted
2016-11-17
Format
video/mp4
application/pdf
Extent
799 MB
Medium
27-minute and 00-second audio recording
14-page digital transcript
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Music Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Nicholas Agon Kresky and Sarah Schneider and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Ahlquist, Karen. <a href="http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/62281651" target="_blank"><em>Chorus and Community</em></a>. Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 2006.
Boedeker, Hal. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/features/os-orlando-gay-chorus-25-years-20150611-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando Gay Chorus marks 25 years</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, October 18, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/features/os-orlando-gay-chorus-25-years-20150611-story.html.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Hyman, Jamie. "<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/2016/06/16/community-rises-mass-shooting-orlando-gay-nightclub-kills-49/" target="_blank">Community rises up after mass shooting at Orlando gay nightclub kills 49</a>." <em>Watermark</em>, June 16, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.watermarkonline.com/2016/06/16/community-rises-mass-shooting-orlando-gay-nightclub-kills-49/.
Click to View (Movie, Podcast, or Website)
<a href="https://youtu.be/B-KE6q281eY" target="_blank">Oral History of Nicholas Agon Kresky</a>
Transcript
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Today is Thursday, November 17<sup>th</sup>, 2016. My name is Sarah Schneider and I’m conducting an oral history interview with Nick [Nicholas] Agon Kresky of the Orlando Gay Chorus. The interview is being conducted at the UCF[1] Center for Emerging Media in Orlando, Florida.</p>
<p>So thank you for being here today.</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Thank you.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>And can you start off by stating your name for us?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Sure. My name is Nick Agon Kresky.</p>
<p><strong>Schenider<br /></strong>Thank you. And could you start off by telling us where you were born and how long you’ve lived in Orlando?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Sure. Um, I was born in Duluth, Minnesota. I grew up in the upper peninsula of Michigan and I moved to Orlando in 2010.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Great. And what brought you to the Orlando Gay Chorus?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Um, looking for kind of an outlet. Something different. Um, when I was—when I was younger, growing up in—in Michigan, I was brought to Milwaukee Pride as kind of a celebration of my high school graduation. And I got to see the—I think they were the Brew City Chorus. Um, it was LGBT[2] chorus over in Milwaukee.<br /><br />And when I moved to Orlando, I was like, “Orlando’s big enough. They should have something.” So I went and I Googled it. And sure enough, there they were. Hm.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, and so can you tell us about some of your favorite productions or performances…</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…you’ve done through the chorus.</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Um, my first performance was “Rainbows over Broadway”. It was a 2011 spring concert. And I really enjoyed that one because it was just a—a lot of campy fun. Just kind of ceb—celebrating the community. Um, and then I—I’m not a fan of the music from our “Pillow Talk” performance. I like the cohesion and the—we—it had a great storyline. Lots of, um—lots of [inaudible], so—and I—I like a show with good production.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mmhmm. Um, and did—I’m not sure if I already—if you already said…</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…how long have you been a part of the [Orlando] Gay Chorus?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>I’ve been with the chorus for about five and a half years.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Okay. And, um, have you participated in any of the GALA[3] events?
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Uh, yeah. I’ve been in two different GALA events.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Okay. And, um, where were those located?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>They were both in Denver[, Colorado]. So I think 2012 and 2016 as well.</p>
<p><strong>Schenider<br /></strong>Okay. And can you tell me more about the 2012 GALA event and what your experience was like there?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Sure. Um, in 2012, uh, I had needed a little bit of escape, too. And I’d—I finished relationship[sic] months and months prior. And I’d just kind of started a romantic interest with another chorus member. Um, and then we, uh—yeah. 2012 I guess was just more about learning about the—the gay choral movement. I never knew there was an actual movement. And, um, kind of learning about the sense of community that comes from gay choruses. Mm.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, and so, getting to Pulse. Could…
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…you tell me a little bit about how you first heard about the Pulse shooting?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Sure. Um, my husband, Manny, and I were working on renovations at the house. So we’re stuck sleeping downstairs on these little [inaudible] beds. And we started getting f—like random phone calls and text messages. And it’s really early in the morning and we were trying to sleep. I had to work in the morning. I’m like, “I’m old and I’m tired [<em>laughs</em>].” So I’m checking the messages and everybody’s checking to see if we’re okay. And I mean instantly, your mind is, “What’s—what’s going on?” It’s—that’s when we were going into Facebook and the media. Um, checking CNN.com. You realize that there’s an incident at Pulse happening. And then we’re having to reassure everybody at three o’clock in the morning that we’re okay. Please let us sleep. We did not really know the gravity of the situation ‘til much later.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>And, um, what did you do the rest of that Sunday?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Um, that Sunday I actually had to turn—go into work. Um, and so I got in there, um—it was a[sic] early morning shift. So, of course, you had all those phone calls. And then you’re like, “I have to report to work.” And I work at a—a local theme park with lots of young people. People that have been out in the clubs all night. So, you know, would they—that’s when they started doing body counts. And we’re sitting in the break room, getting ready to start our day. And we didn’t know who was going to show up and who wasn’t.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, and what were your thoughts as sort of the rest of the day unfolded and as—in those few days following Pulse?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>It was completely surreal because when you’re out working with guests, you had to ignore that it even happened. It’s—that’s—you know, escapism is all—is all about the theme park industry. And as a—as a[sic] employee, you have to go out there and escape with them. Nothing bad ever happens at a theme park. And so you had to take that part of your brain and—and switch it off. And you’re really walking a fine line of fantasy and reality. Mm.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, and so, um, what was the Orlando Gay Chorus’s response like in those first few days and—and in weeks following?
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>It was—it was insane. You just did—out of—out of nowhere, we started just getting emails and messages as—as members, um, from—from our leadership. And we’ve got—we’ve been asked to go in the first—the first night we were asked to do a vigil over at the church [Joy Metropolitan Community Church]. We were asked—um, over at [Joy] MCC. And we were asked not to advertise anything about it on social media because we didn’t really know really how dangerous the environment was going to be. And so this was—it was all kind of under wraps.</p>
<p>And at that time, it was such a shock for—for myself that I had—had declined the invitation. But then, the following day, when they had decided to go and do the—the performance at, uh, Dr. Phillips Center [for the Performing Arts]. Then I decided, yes. It’s about time just to kind of gauge, you know, what—what community am I walking out into [<em>clears throat</em>]?</p>
<p>Um, the chorus’s response was just incredible though. It was very, uh—it was probably the most recognized I’ve ever seen us. You know? We—we’re—we’re all about singing. We’re all about going out and having fun with a message. And now, we’re expected to take all of these cats and herd them. And tell ‘em where to be and how to be. And we—we had just invested in this, um—oh, goodness—Chorus Connection, which is a—a really great app, um, and, uh, kind of organizational software for choruses. And so we were able to just, within an hour or two, respond to a vigil request. And, you know, you all of a sudden have representation. We’d never been that organized [<em>laughs</em>] before that [inaudible].</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mm.</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>So…</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Mm. And, um, so what was your experience, as a member of the [Orlando] Gay Chorus…</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…um, participating in vigils and memorial services and other events?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Um, it was—it was a mixture of trying to find some sort of self-sooving[sic]—self-soothing and trying to project a—a message of caring and wanting to support the greater community. You know? You’re, eh—you’re, uh—in the end, you’re trying to figure out who’s actually supporting you. Um, and just kind of coming to a realization that, you know, we were all in it together. We were all supporting each other. Whether it be, you know, a person standing three hundred, four hundred people back. Or, you know, a person standing next to you onstage.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, and what did you think when you, um, participated and—and experienced the reaction of the local community? What did you think about the local reaction?
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>It was extremely overwhelming. It—I—I grew up in a really rural, conservative area that’s—I mean I g—I grew up in a time where—or—and in a place where being gay could, you know, send you home in a black bag. Like that was—it was a dangerous time. You don’t talk about it. You don’t act on it. Um, and then I come into this community, where, you know, the—it was like the second night and we’re still trying to figure out how many people and what was going on. And then you have this huge gathering, you know, right on the lawn of the Dr. Phillips Center [for the Performing Arts]. And you look out there and there’s—there’s no more green space. There were so many people there. It was just—it was so surreal to see that level of support for the LGBT community. And then, you know, the city as a whole. Mm.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, and what other moments stand out for you, um, in that time period of—of all the vigils and events and things happening? Do any other moments come to mind?
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Um, I think, uh, you notice [<em>laughs</em>] I won’t say. They had the—they had the, um—at the dogs. They had the, uh—I—I don’t know how many times that I—I was in human services for 10 years. And I really s—believed in pet therapy. I loved it. And I knew that in times of crisis, people would come in with these therapy dogs. And, you know, it was just to kind of bring a little soothing and maybe even kind of just ground you, if just for the moment.</p>
<p>And I realized the gravity of the situation. And how much of a—how much of a tragedy on our community it is. Again, this was all surreal. I mean, there was—there was no reality to this. And I realized how bad it was when the therapy dogs were there. And they had traveled miles to get there. And they’re walking through the crowd with these dogs. Because this is something I had studied. This is something that I knew. And it felt great because in participating in the—you know, [inaudible] on the dog that’s there. But, again, to realize the reality of the situation that these dogs were there. Mm.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, did you—what did you think about or experience in terms of the national, maybe the international—but broader…
<p><strong>Kreksy<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…reactions to the event beyond just the local community?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Um, can you rephrase the [inaudible]?</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um…</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Sorry.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…what did you think about the reaction of people beyond Orlando to the Pulse shooting?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Um, I guess as the chorus traveled, we got to maybe s—witness, uh, a very la—a very large—I guess a greater view of that. I mean you he—you see—you see responses on CNN. You see responses on Facebook. You—and you’re—and you’re watching the feeds and whatnot. But, you know, you realize s—support, but you didn’t really feel it until you walked to the car rental desk. And they look at your driver’s license and they say, “Oh. Orlando.” And then they want to talk about it. And they want to—they’re looking for some sense of closure as well. You don’t realize that it hurt our community. It hurt our city. But it also impacted the nation pretty heavily for the couple weeks that it was running in the media.</p>
<p>I think we, even after Denver, um—Manny and I—my husband and I went to, uh, California for a couple of days. And, you know, you couldn’t esc—we were trying to just escape Pulse for a little bit. We’re just gonna go have fun and unwind. But when you hand over your—your driver’s license or they ask you to fill in the visitor’s book and then they say, “Orlando,” or then they want to talk about it, you realize that it comes from a place of genuine warmth and kindness. But it’s, again, very overwhelming. You—you—you realize how big this was.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, and so can you tell me now about the GALA in Denver…
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…in 2016—so after Pulse—and what that experience was like?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Whew. That’s—that’s a lot to tell [<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Um, we—in 2—and we’re talking about 2012 or 2016?</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, 2—whichever do you like.</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Okay.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>But I…</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Sure.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…I was thinking 2016.</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>So in 2012, you know, we were just—we’re the campy little choir with the Mickey [Mouse] ears. And everybody loves to come see Orlando because we bring the fun. And we bring—you know, we bring the little silly with us. And—and, you know, we are—our songs tell a story. It’s a very kind of—you get the warm fuzz and you leave.</p>
<p>This year—this time when we went, we didn’t—we didn’t even have to sing to—to get accolades. To get warmth through, um—the first day, we were—we were invited to a singalong with a couple of the choruses. And we’re basically just kind of backup. Right [<em>laughs</em>]? It was walking in, uh, doing—doing our lines and then leave. And the crowd didn’t let us leave. The crowd—cr—crowd wouldn’t even let the concert start. Because we were—we’re the last people to walk into the hall. Nobody announced us. They just saw our shirts. And there was an immediate standing ovation. Just because we were walking [<em>cries</em>] by. Just because we were walking to the hall.</p>
<p>You could, um—I mean you could see—just our presence, you could see people crying. You could see them holding each other. And its hard—it—initially, it was hard because we were the group that was invoking tears. But then you realize we were the group that was [<em>clears throat</em>]—we were the group that was invoking solidarity. [<em>sniffs</em>] There were—there were banners everywhere that says[sic], you know, “We Stand with Orlando,” “Orlando Strong.” Um, you know, these are probably from people that may have never even been to our city. And there they are standing with us. All supporting us because, you know, their brothers and sisters were attacked.</p>
<p>It was—we—we performed three different times when really we’re—initially s—we were supposed to only perform once. We were supposed to perform this cheesy little montage that we pulled over from our—our spring show. And it just—within moments of—of the incident, we realized we had to go ch—completely change the whole set. And pull from wherever we could to create something that was, uh, you know—that was heartfelt. That would maybe bring about some sort of healing.</p>
<p>Um, w—we had—so we had our invitation for the first night. Then we did our performance. Um, and again, the—the—these performances are timed, so the minute you hit the stage, you have x amount of minutes to perform and get off. They moved our set to the end ‘cause they knew they couldn’t time us. They knew that just by walking on the stage we would have to wait for the applause to end. And it was right. We walked in. There was standing room only. We’ve never had that before [<em>laughs</em>]. I mean we—the—the amount of—of support and warmth that outpoured was just incredible. And then—then there we were again, um, for, my goodness—it was En—was it “Engendered Species”? I can’t even remember. There were so many [<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p>And, again, it was just our presence that just kept on bringing the crowds of people wanting to feel like they were a part of—of us. And I—and I really hope that, you know, we were able to make that happen for them. That we were able to help them find some kind of closure or some sort of healing as well. Mmhmm.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>And how did people ac—interact with you from the other choruses on a personal level outside of the actual performance when you met people?
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Sure. The—the first night, I was afraid to even wear my Orlando shirt because I knew people would want to talk to us about it. And I personally wasn’t ready. I did not want to—I did not want to be Orlando. I just wanted to be a GALA singer. And then you run out—you run out of clothes. No. I’m kidding [<em>laughs</em>]. No. Um, I—it just—I saw some of the other chorus members wearing their shirts. Realized it was going to be okay to wear mine. But as soon as I put it on, like random people would hug you. Even people that weren’t even going to the GALA conference, they’re just, you know, on the—the bus with you, trying to get somewhere downtown, want to hug you. And it was—it was—it was wild. I’m a hugger. Um, I—I’m not opposed to human touch. But, oh, my goodness [<em>laughs</em>]. It was—it was a lot [<em>sniffs</em>].</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, and I’m also wondering if Pulse as a site meant anything…
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…to you before the shooting. And, um, what, if anything, it represents for you now.</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Um, before the shooting, it was a place where the kids go. And I—I’m really not that old. I’m, um, in my mid-thirties. Uh, but the crowd that attended Pulse was, you know, a younger crowd. A trendier crowd. Maybe a thinner crowd [<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Scheider<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>But, you know, they were, um—they—it wasn’t usually—it wasn’t typically a place that I would—I would go to. It wasn’t—it wasn’t my home bar I guess. Um, I knew of it. I drove by it. It looked like a great, you know, fun place. And I got—there were times where I—I intended to go and visit just because it was something different. But I don’t know. I felt like I would be a little out of place.</p>
<p>Afterward, it just became, you know, just a—a living memorial. It just—it sits there and it—it, um—it almost reminds—it almost makes—it’s kind of a mark of this overcoming silly divisions that are even in our own community. In the LGBT community. You know? We create our little cliques. Our little groups. And you realize that, you know, we’re all dealing with the same struggles. And we’re all dressed in the same flesh. And to drive by the building anymore is sh—you know? The first time, it was horrific. You know? I s—I tried to—days—days upon days just avoiding streets to get around it and not having to pass it. But then the first time I passed it, you know, reality sank in that, yep, this is the place. And now, the building itself is almost like a—almost like a mausoleum. It’s—it—it’s hard to look at it. It’s hard to drive by it.</p>
<p>Um, you know, I—we—we had coworkers from our company that—that had passed away in the tragedy. Um, and it just, you know—it really brings it home every time. You know? How much—how much hatred can really impact a community. And how much destruction can happen because of it. You know? It’s—it’s no longer, you know, the place that you might go on a Saturday. It’s now the site of the worst, you know, massacre in modern American history.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, and did social media play any part in your, um, reaction to your experience with the aftermath of the shooting?
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Um, social media became kind of an outlet to form your thoughts. You know? And we—you’re able to edit the words that you’re typing. You’re able to process things as you’re putting it out. So it almost becomes a live journal. Um, it was nice to see the support from others. Um, it also gave an opportunity to—to educate people. Pardon me. Um, you know, they immediately, as with any other, um—as with any other public shooting, you start having these discussions about gun control legislation. And you start having discussions about mental health. You i—it—it runs the whole gamut. And social media just came—became kind of a place to—a safe place to have those kinds of discussions. Mm.</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, and do have any thoughts about what the long-term consequences might be for the Orlando gay community or for the broader Orlando community or what you might hope the long-term impact of the shooting would be?
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Um, the long-term consequences. Initially, I was afraid that we would be stuck going back into our little boxes. Um, and maybe being less out. Um, being less true to ourselves. Uh, obviously, it seems like the—the exact opposite has happened. You know? And [<em>laughs</em>] you see this meme, you know, “You just pissed off the gay community. Watch out.” That kind of [<em>laughs</em>]—we get stuff done. Um, and sure enough I—I strongly believe that I—it’s my hope that for our city, we develop a—a tolerance for each other. Um, it’s—it’s a big enough city to get lost in. But it’s small enough to know people. And so, really hoping that this gives us a chance to reach out and get to know people that you normally wouldn’t—you normally wouldn’t associate with. You normally wouldn’t talk with.</p>
<p>Um, on a broader scale, you know, I—I don’t know how realistic it is, but I really do hope that we begin to fund, you know, better mental health treatment. We begin to look at, um, more sane gun legislation. You know? It’s—if 49 isn’t enough, then, you know, what is?</p>
<strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, and what other reflections have you had about the Pulse shooting or about your involvement in the [Orlando] Gay Chorus or anything else that you’ve been thinking about that we haven’t talked about?
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>Mm. Let’s see. Um, don’t forget h—how your actions affect others. You know? Uh, whether it’s, you know, considering—considering acting out on such a grand scale, uh, as the shooter did, or if it is, you know, just wanting to lash out at somebody, don’t—don’t forget, you know, how—how your actions affect other people. Step outside of the box. Step outside of the tunnel vision. And that’s—I hope that that’s one of our lasting legacies.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>Um, is there anything else we didn’t talk about that you’d like to say or share?</p>
<p><strong>Kresky</strong> Um, not that I can think of. You know [<em>laughs</em>]? Thank you.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider</strong> Okay. Well, thank you so much. We really…</p>
<p><strong>Kresky<br /></strong>I appreciate it.</p>
<p><strong>Schneider<br /></strong>…appreciate you talking with us.</p>
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<p>[1] University of Central Florida</p>
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<p>[2] Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender</p>
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<p>[3] Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses</p>
</div>
</div>
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
Brew City Chorus
Cable News Network
Chorus Connection
CNN
CNN.com
Colorado
Denver
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Duluth
Facebook
fundraisers
GALA Choruses Festival
Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses
GLBT
gun control
gun regulation
gun violence
hate crimes
homosexuality
Joy MCC
Joy Metropolitan Community Church
LGBT
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
mass shootings
Michigan
Milwaukee Pride
Minnesota
Nicholas Agon Kresky
orlando
Orlando Gay Chorus
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
outreach events
pet therapy
Pillow Talk
Pulse massacre
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
Rainbows over Broadway
Sarah Schneider
social media
terrorist attacks
theme parks
UCF
University of Central Florida
University of Central Florida Center for Emerging Media
vigils
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/fce724952773f51471717fce7ed72c54.pdf
0fd076b6610ed90aeadf407cf5e14674
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Orlando Gay Chorus Collection
Alternative Title
Gay Chorus Collection
Is Part Of
Orlando Gay Chorus Collection, RICHES Program
Type
Collection
Digital Collection
<div class="element-text"><a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a></div>
<div class="element-text"> </div>
Subject
Orlando (Fla.)
Music--Florida
Dance--United States
Gay culture--United States
Description
The Orlando Gay Chorus (OGC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts and humanitarian organization, and part of the Gay and Lesbian Association (GALA) of Choruses. Founded on Valentines Day 1990, OGC is not only one of the largest mixed gay choirs in the United States at over 100 members, but they also boast four smaller ensembles that perform annual concerts, cabarets, and a host of community events, such as Come Out With Pride, Orlando Museum of Art’s Festival of Trees, and World AIDS Day memorial services. In 2017, the group performed at over 105 events, including 15 performances for the first anniversary of the Pulse Nightclub tragedy. Members come from all walks of life and all sexual and gender orientations, including straight allies. OGC lives by the motto “Singing the World to a Better Place” and strives to use music to change attitudes and build a stronger community.
Oral History
A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Oral History of Richard Lamberty
Alternative Title
Oral History, Richard Lamberty
Subject
Orlando (Fla.)
Music--Florida
Mass shootings
Dance--United States
Gay culture--United States
Description
An oral history interview of Richard Lamberty, a member of the Orlando Gay Chorus, same-sex ballroom dancer, and software developer. This interview was conducted by Geoffrey Cravero at the Center for Humanities and Digital Research at the University of Central Florida (UCF) in Orlando, Florida, on October 11th, 2016. Some of the topics covered include a biographical summary, his educational history, discovering dance, his family history, his relationship with his father, same-sex ballroom dancing, the Orlando Gay Chorus, Orlando Cloggers, becoming a dance instructor, losing communication and physical skills from rheumatoid arthritis, world travels as a dance instructor, homosexuality in Japan, the end of his dance career, North American Same-Sex Partner Dance Association (NASSPDA), the history of same-sex dancing, the kinesiology of dance, Dance Vision International Dancers Association (DVIDA) American Smooth Bronze Syllabus manual, reasons for joining the Orlando Gay Chorus, the mass shooting at the Pulse nightclub and its aftermath, the Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses (GALA) Festival, being a public figure and representing Orlando, violence against homosexuals, meeting a transsexual Muslim, the John F. Kennedy Space Center (KSC) vigil for victims of the Pulse massacre, homosexuality in the space and defense industry, turning tragedy into positive change, gun control reform, the community response to Pulse tragedy, the significance of the rainbow flag, the long-term consequences of the Pulse tragedy, and the rise of fundamentalism.
Table Of Contents
0:00:00 Introduction <br />0:03:06 Family <br />0:07:24 Same-sex dancing and the Orlando Gay Chorus <br />0:11:06 Living with rheumatoid arthritis <br />0:13:43 Changing attitudes towards homosexuality in Japan <br />0:18:05 History of same-sex dancing <br />0:25:04 Dance Vision International Dancers Association (DVIDA) and the kinesiology of dance <br />0:30:13 Joining the Orlando Gay Chorus <br />0:36:00 Mass shooting at Pulse nightclub <br />0:48:08 Achievements in computer science <br />0:50:36 2016 GALA Choruses Festival and abuse against the LGTBQ+ community <br />1:01:01 Singing at John F. Kennedy Space Center and gun control <br />1:06:37 Community response to Pulse tragedy <br />1:09:11 How the Orlando Gay Chorus can influence political and social change <br />1:17:07 Closing remarks
Abstract
Oral history interview of Richard Lamberty. Interview conducted by Geoffrey Cravero in Orlando, Florida, on October 11, 2016.
Type
Moving Image
Source
Lamberty, Richard. Interviewed by Geoffrey Cravero, October 11, 2016. Audio record available. <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, Orlando, Florida.
Requires
Multimedia software, such as <a href="http://www.apple.com/quicktime/download/" target="_blank"> QuickTime</a>.
<a href="http://www.adobe.com/products/reader.html" target="_blank">Adobe Acrobat Reader</a>
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/206" target="_blank">Orlando Gay Chorus Collection</a>, LGBTQ+ Collection, RICHES of Central Florida.
Has Format
Digital transcript of original 1-hour, 18-minute, and 03-second oral history: Lamberty, Richard. Interviewed by Geoffrey Cravero. Audio record available. <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, Orlando, Florida.
Coverage
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando, Florida
GALA Choruses Festival, Denver Performing Arts Center, Denver, Colorado
Japan
Orlando, Florida
Pulse, Orlando, Florida
Rollins College, Winter Park, Florida
University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Lamberty, Richard
Cravero, Geoffrey
Publisher
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Date Created
2016-10-11
Date Copyrighted
2016-10-11
Format
video/mp4
application/pdf
Extent
1.09 GB
283 KB
Medium
1-hour, 18-minute and 4-second video recording
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Music Teacher
Dance Teacher
Provenance
Originally created by Richard Lamberty and Geoffrey Cravero and published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>.
Rights Holder
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Katalin, Lnyi. <a href="http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/951006947" target="_blank"><em>Same-Sex Ballroom Dance - A Challenge to Patriarchal Gender Order</em></a>. VDM Verlag, 2008.
PeRez, Robert. "<a href="http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2005-12-27/news/DANCER27_1_dance-instructors-professional-dancer-same-sex-dancing" target="_blank">Orlando native overcomes odds, rules dance floor</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, December 27, 2005. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2005-12-27/news/DANCER27_1_dance-instructors-professional-dancer-same-sex-dancing.
Shepherd, Lindy T. "<a href="http://www.orlandoweekly.com/orlando/who-leads/Content?oid=2253395#" target="_blank">WHO LEADS?</a>." <em>Orlando Weekly</em>, March 30, 2006. Accessed November 7, 2016. http://www.orlandoweekly.com/orlando/who-leads/Content?oid=2253395#.
Ahlquist, Karen. <a href="http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/62281651" target="_blank"><em>Chorus and Community</em></a>. Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 2006.
Boedeker, Hal. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/features/os-orlando-gay-chorus-25-years-20150611-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando Gay Chorus marks 25 years</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, October 18, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/features/os-orlando-gay-chorus-25-years-20150611-story.html.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Hyman, Jamie. "<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/2016/06/16/community-rises-mass-shooting-orlando-gay-nightclub-kills-49/" target="_blank">Community rises up after mass shooting at Orlando gay nightclub kills 49</a>." <em>Watermark</em>, June 16, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.watermarkonline.com/2016/06/16/community-rises-mass-shooting-orlando-gay-nightclub-kills-49/.
Click to View (Movie, Podcast, or Website)
<a href="https://youtu.be/K2rphgLl1sQ" target="_blank">Oral History of Richard Lamberty</a>
Transcript
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>Alright. Let’s see. This is Geoffrey Cravero, and I’m conducting an oral history with Richard Lamberty of the Orlando Gay Chorus. The interview is being conducted in the conference room of the Center fo—of—Center for [<em>laughs</em>] Humanities and Digital Research at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida, on Tuesday, October 11<sup>th</sup>, 2016 [<em>clears throat</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Which, by the way, happens to be National Coming Out Day.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>National Coming Out Day. I saw the s—I saw the sign earlier. Excellent, good timing. So, uh, Mr. Lamberty, thank you for speaking with us today. If you would, let’s start by having you state your name and telling us a little about where you’re from.</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Richard Lamberty. L-A-M-B—as in boy—E-R-T-Y. Um, I was born in Chicago, Illinois, and we moved to Orlando when I was five. Um, we stayed here until I was 16, and then we briefly moved to Maryland, where I graduated high school, and then I came back to Orlando and attended Rollins [College], um, and then after Rollins, I actually came to UCF[1] for almost two years, during which time I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and they put me on a medication. Um, one of the side effects of that medication was I lost the ability to read, write, and speak, and so I was unable to complete my graduate degree at that time, um—ended[sic] up moving to New Mexico, where my parents had gone, and enrolled in the university out there to, uh, work in their computer science artificial intelligence department, which by the time I got there, was gone, and so there was not a single person left on campus that even knew that I existed, and there was no one to help me with paperwork or any of the transfers of credit or anything. It was start over.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>] Um, continued to work on the degree out there, but got hired to work on a NASA[2] project that I did for five years, and then moved to California, where I stayed for another 18 years, before coming back to Orlando in 2005, um, basically, to be closer to family, and so I have lived here in Orlando ever since.</p>
<p>Um, I started dancing—you were ask—gonna ask about the dancing thing—I started dancing when I was 10 years old, and I danced first with the Orlando Cloggers, which was a—a youth, square-dance clogging group that was sponsored by the City of Orlando, and from that I got involved in what’s called “round dancing,” which is kind of a hybrid between square dancing and ballroom dancing—ballroom dances and figures, but it’s cued in the same way that a square dance is called, and then directly involved in ballroom from that, and, uh—but because of the arthritis issues then it was like, <em>This is not gonna be what I do with my life.</em> I have to have something else to do, but as long as I’m able I can dance, and I’ve continued to do so for most of my life, um, and that’s taken me all over the world. In fact, I just got back from two weeks in Europe, where I was teaching for the 22<sup>nd</sup> year that I’ve been over there teaching at this event in Germany.</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Um, you know, life in Orlando—mostly what my life about[sic] here is I’m taking care of my elderly mother. I am her primary caretaker, and, um, and then I do what work is available to me, in addition to that, and, you know, in my field if it can be, so designing software, computer systems and things, or doing people’s websites and such, but, um, mostly my life is about dealing with family, taking care of family.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>And, uh, what d—what did your family do? It was your—did your mother work? Or…</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Uh, my father was an electrical engineer. Um, he had seven children. I’m the fifth of seven, and, uh, so my mother was basically a stay-at-home mom for a lot that, and then didn’t start really working until I was about 16, um, in Maryland, and then…</p>
<p>[<em>phone rings</em>]</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Go away.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>And don’t do that again.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>I’ll make that stop.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>I should’ve thought of that first.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>Oh, that’s alright.</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>The only person who can make my phone ring now is my mother.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>]. Okay, um, my father was an electrical engineer. He did a wide variety of things for Swift[?] Martin Marietta [Corporation]. Well, actually, in Chicago, we moved down here for a job at Martin—which was before it was Lockheed Martin—and then, um, up to Maryland. Hated it. Cold weather. Not a[sic] interesting job for him. Came back to Florida at Harris Corporation, where they got involved with the satellite project, um, and then eventually ended up with TRW [Inc.] Space and Defense and retired from them. Um, I worked with TRW Space and Defense—was my first real job in my industry, and then, um, that—on the same project as my father, which was an extraordinary privilege. My father was brilliant and exceedingly humble, um, but just this brilliant man, and I had the privilege of spending five years working with him, and just, you know, being around that mind every day and seeing how he viewed the world, which was fascinating because growing up I didn’t experience my parents quite that way. Um, I grew up in a household where debate was the normal form of communication [<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>You know, and I never knew what my parents thought about anything, because if one of ‘em would say something, the other one’d automatically take the opposite position, and so what did, you know—what did either of them actually believe about the world was almost impossible for me to determine, and, um, you know, in that time period, I actually got to learn about my father, and one of the things that I learned was that he wasn’t ashamed of me, because growing up, he never spoke to me, um, and I—I didn’t know why. It turned out he didn’t speak to me because he was partially deaf and he couldn’t hear me. So when my voice really changed then he could hear me, you know? Alone—the two of us, then he could hear me, and I walked into—he worked in a trailer in the desert, and I walked into his office one day for some reason, and on the wall was a framed poster of a dance exhibition that I had done when I was at Rollins, and I went home and I said to my mother, “Did you know that Dad has the poster from Rollins on the wall in—office?” And she said, “Oh, yes. Your father’s very proud of you,” and up until that very moment, what I had assumed was that he was embarrassed about me because I was a dancer and, you know, not like his other sons, and that really—that wasn’t true. So, you know, that was just—it was remarkable, and, you know, in an era where being gay was not okay, you know, having the security clearance and being gay was not okay, um, it was a very hard thing to do, um, and, you know, my parents were very Catholic. Uh, you know, like “know the pope” kind of Catholic. Um, there’s a photograph of my mother with John Paul II—just the two of them. You know, so it was a, you know—that was not okay.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>And yet, there this poster was. It was an incredible experience.<br /><br />Um, but no. When I came back to Orlando, I continued to dance, and I had gotten involved with same-sex ballroom dancing. Uh, you know, two men dancing together, two women dancing together—which again, two women dancing together has always been socially acceptable; two men dancing together has not, and so, um—and I had a partner here in Orlando. We trained, we worked hard, we eventually won world titles together, and then he quit, and I didn’t have anything to do, so I had heard the [Orlando Gay] Chorus sing, and I thought, <em>I can try this. I don’t sing, but I can try this</em>, you know? I was in chorus in seventh and eighth grade, but, um, I didn’t get a good grade, and when I asked the teacher why she told me I didn’t have a good voice, and so I quit singing, and I never sang again. I mean I wouldn’t sing “Happy Birthday” to people for 35 years. So I joined the chorus and then, you know, started singing with them, and it was fun. It was—I didn’t have to be good. There were [<em>laughs</em>] zero expectations that I actually be good at anything. Not like work, not like dancing, you know—just show up, sing, gave a good time, and, you know, as it happens, apparently, I’ve gotten to the point where I’m okay as a singer, and, you know, had the—the privilege of being a part of the chorus now for six years, and it’s really—it is—it’s a lot of fun. Wonderful thing.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>That’s fantastic. Um, so, uh, can you tell us a little more about how you got involved in, uh, ballroom and Latin dancing? Um, what sort of work, uh, did you do as a board member on the—I saw that you did…</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Oh.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>The North American Same-Sex Partner Dance Association [NASSPDA]…</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>You Googled me.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>I Googled.</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Yes.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Okay, my parents were square dancers. They had taken a square dance class here in Orlando, and they had what was called “hoedown,” which was in the parking lot of the, uh, um, uh, Colonial Plaza Mall in where—what now would be the—I guess the Walgreens or the CVS is in that corner—that was parking. They put up a tent one day and they just had the square dance callers with a whole bunch of people, and people were dancing in the parking lot [<em>door closes</em>], and I saw the Orlando Cloggers perform, and that’s what I wanted to do. I wasn’t quite old enough yet. You had to be 10 and I wasn’t 10 yet, and so as soon as I turned 10, then I could start the classes, and it was amazing. It was run by the city. It was $5 per family for the season—not $5 a week, not $5 a person. It was $5 for the entire thing—for three of us to go and take the classes, and I loved it. I thought it was awesome. I loved the dancing, so, you know, I learned to clog, I learned to square dance, and then I learned the round dancing, which was like ballroom, and, um, we moved to Maryland when I was in high school, and I can dance, and I got a job at an independent ballroom dancing studio as a dance teacher at the age of 16. I—and this is 1975—’75 —’76 —and I was making $16 an hour, which is basically still what a—a beginning dance instructor makes—same—same thing—but I was making $16 an hour teaching dance lessons, and I think the minimum wage was $2.85 [<em>laughs</em>]. So it’s like, <em>Woo hoo.</em> I had money. It’s like I’m 16 years old, I’ve got this job that I can—that I love, and I have money. It was amazing and—and I loved the dancing.</p>
<p>Um, when I developed [rheumatoid] arthritis and—you know, what they told me was I’d never walk again. I was 100 percent disabled, and that was while I was here at UCF. You know, the campus was not that big, as it is now, but I couldn’t walk across campus, and the medication had this profound effect on me. I—I couldn’t communicate, um, you know, I couldn’t write coherently, I couldn’t make sense of what I was reading, and I couldn’t—I could not talk intelligently, um, and fortunately, there was a professor here in the Computer Science Department who understood what was going on, and she advised me to, you know, get the medical records brought in and have my record expunged and sealed so that all of that failing grade stuff that showed up, because of that, would not show up on my transcript ever, and without that I would have simply just failed, uh, graduate school, and probably never been able to get back in, um, and then, you know, got enough better that I could move and get back into school and get a job that was, uh—that I loved, um, and tried to dance, you know, as best I could, and it wasn’t always easy physically.</p>
<p>I was—I was allergic to the non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, and so any of them that I would take would cause some kind of a very unpleasant neurological side effect, so it was just better to be in pain. So basically, for 30 years—so I just lived in pain, and didn’t tell anybody. You didn’t talk about it. Um, you know, if it was a bad day, you just tried to dance with your partner not touching actually, you know? It’s like you’re s—and don’t say. Don’t s—never tell anybody why you can’t do anything, you know? Um, yeah, it was really horrible, um, pretending, you know—pretending about a lot of things—pretending about being okay, pretending about not being gay, pretending about, you know, that my brain was working normally when it wasn’t. Basically, life was a whole lot about pretending a lot of things, and very painful—physically, psychologically, emotionally painful experience to live that way all the time.</p>
<p>But, yeah, I got, you know—I danced as much as I could, and slowly, slowly over time. Basically, most dancers peak in their late 20s or early 30. It’s like, <em>Mm, yeah. Not until I was in my late-40s</em>, [<em>laughs</em>] you know, and, um, you know, d—did what teaching I could over the years. I mean, I’ve been traveling to Europe for over 20 years and teaching there, um, uh, various places around the United States, Canada, Japan. Uh, we did—a couple years ago, we did a three week tour in Japan—six different teaching events while we were there. It was just amazing—which in and of itself was fascinating because, you know, there’s a large community of dancers in Japan, and they knew of me and they—they would—when they would come to the United States, there[sic] was[sic] always be at the events that I was at, um, and they brought people over all the time to teach, and I asked—was a big, big international convention that I was teaching at—there was a huge group of Japanese there, and I got invited to the room party with the Japanese—was the only white person at this party, and, um, so I asked, you know—it’s like, you know, “When will I get invited to Japan?” And this—there was this discussion. This rapid discussion in Japanese, and the woman who spoke English best took me into the—the bathroom in the connected hotel rooms and closed the door and said to me, “We cannot invite you.” I was like, “Well, why?” And she goes, “Because whoever invites you would have to accept your shame.” I was like, “Oh.”</p>
<p>So when I got contacted a couple years ago about coming over, there was an American woman living in Japan—I didn’t know her history, but she was an American woman living in Japan with the dancing—and so I wrote to her and said, “I’d love to come, but, you know, you need to know,” and she said to me, you know, “It’s not how it is now.” Things changed. Things changed because finally, the Japanese government had to acknowledge that there were people in Japan dying of AIDS,[3] and so everything changed when they acknowledged that—that these are Japanese people; therefore, they’re Japanese, and the laws changed, and the way that people behaved changed, and now it was just not a problem, and this was like, you know, social change on this huge scale in a couple of years, you know? Things that we have been fighting for in this country for 20 or 30 years and still don’t have—that they could achieve because, as a society, it’s more important that you’re Japanese than it is that you’re gay, you know? So she arranged this trip, we went, we had this amazing time, and it didn’t matter at all, you know? It didn’t matter at all. It matters more here than it does there. Um, you know, I mean I’m—and I still—I love dancing. Although at this point, I’m probably done. I don’t have a partner anymore.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>And if I can’t dance on a regular basis then I lose the ability to dance, which anybody would. Any skill that you’ve developed, if you don’t use it, you lose it. It’s, you know—especially physical skills, but in my case, it’s not just that. Dancing’s what’s kept me well. Um, if I don’t move, I can’t move, and I’ve tried other things. I’ve, you know, gone to gyms, I’ve done swimming, I’ve done all kinds of things. The only thing that’s been really effective is the dancing that I do, and so basically, you know, 47 years of dancing and I don’t have a partner. If I don’t have a partner, I can’t dance. If I can’t dance, I don’t know how long it is that I can walk. That’s the equation. I mean, you know, we talked—I—walking over here from the parking garage was an ordeal, and that’s been, you know—it’s four—four months that I haven’t danced regularly. Going to Germany and having to dance all day, every day, you know? It’s like the first day was just horrible, and after that it was like, <em>Oh, dancing. My body is happy.</em></p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>“It’s fine.” Yeah, so I get distracted easily. It’s okay [<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>Oh [<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>] I’m chatty.</p>
<strong>Cravero<br /></strong>Um, I was gonna—I have a question following up on that—is, um, what kind of—did you face any sort of challenges, um, early on, um, in a same-sex partner dance organization? Like what did you…
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Oh, you were—asked about NASSPDA.[4] That was not the first.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Um, the first organization kind of disappeared. It[?] was the United States same-sex dance, uh, organization that I was one of the founders of. I was also a—a—an honorary founding member of the European same-sex dance organization,[5] and then, at the same time that those two were formed, there was a world organization that was formed that I was on the committee that help form it, write the bylaws, was an officer of, and then there was a dispute about, you know: was that the right way to do this? Did it happen too fast? All that. So that organization shut down. The North American one disappeared, and a couple years later, the, um—or the U.S. one disappeared. Then the—they decided to do—try again, and we created the North American Same-Sex Partner Dance Association—NASSPDA—and I was, again, one of the founders, uh—original co—co-president with a woman, um, Barbara Zoloth, was one—one of my students for many years, and, um, you know, then—actually, I was the first honorary member of the organization when I went off the board. They voted me in, and, uh, you know—so I—I’ve been involved in the history of same-sex dancing in the United States since essentially its beginning.</p>
<p>Um, I ran the first, uh—well, not the first. The first same-sex dance competition was a long time ago in New York—the first one we know of—but it was a one-time thing, and then nothing happened for years and years, but I put one together with, uh, my partner that[sic] I went to the Gay Games in 1998 with—Tom Slater—and a woman—a straight woman that[sic] was helping us—Ava Kaye—and, um, then the three of us decided this was important, and we put together, um, it was—I think it was “March Madness”—might have been the first one. It was either “March Madness” or “April Follies,” and then, the next one, you know—we did series of them that—that I ran with the two of them for many years, starting around 2000—2001—and then, when I moved away, I ran the next year remotely, you know, went back for it, but it was too much. So I turned it over to this organization—a non-profit in the [San Francisco] Bay area that has run it ever since, and so it’s the longest-running same-sex, uh, dance competition in North America, and longer than many of the ones in Europe, um, and, uh, so there’s the—you know, very small community of people involved in that in this country. We don’t have a history of partner dancing in this country in the way they do in Europe and other places in the world, but there are people that are[sic] really love it. It’s this wonderful thing to do. It’s social, it’s engaging, it challenges the mind and the body, um, it’s great exercise in a gentle way, um, and it’s fun. It’s just a tremendous amount of fun.</p>
<p>Um, competing in the same-sex world is so different than the mainstream world. The mainstream world is very cutthroat, and the same-sex world is, you know, the—the—the people who’ve been to mainstream competition that come to one of the same-sex events is like, “What? It’s like, “You s—you act like you like each other. You know, this isn’t like a competition. It’s like a party. It’s a celebration,” and that’s exactly what it feels like. We are celebrating something that we can’t have. I mean there were rules against same-sex couples competing, uh, in regular competitions. Some of that has changed now, but there were rules against it. You weren’t allowed, you know, a—and it’s not just that you, you know, could if you wanted to. Y—you weren’t allowed, and while I wasn’t directly involved in a lot of the politics in the mainstream world to do that, um, I was behind the people who were, you know? I wasn’t—they hated me in the mainstream world of ballroom dancing from day one because I was an out[-of-the-closet] gay man doing ballroom dancing, and there were none. It was like, “Y—you can’t do that.” I got told when I was trying to compete as an amateur, and then as a professional, “Sh—y—you can’t be ‘out.’ You ca—you have to stop talking about this. You can’t bring a boyfriend.” I was like, “Yeah. No, I don’t—I y—I don’t need you to dance. I don’t do this for a living. You can’t make me,” and so—oh, they did not like me [<em>laughs</em>]. I mean I—when I was still trying to be an amateur, there were actually lawsuits filed against me. Try to keep me from dancing—trying to, you know, declare me “not an amateur.” I was—I had a sports lawyer. It was—I mean, I f—finally quit. I was spending about $5,000 a year defending my amateur status with the lawyer. It was like, <em>This is ridiculous.</em> This thing’s already so expensive. I was spending $20-25,000 a year dancing, and on top of that, I’ve got to spend lawyers’ fees? Nobody else has to do this. So I just—I gave up. I let them m—make me go pro, and then, you know, dance in Europe more than the United States, because in Europe nobody knows who I am. They don’t care. Then you get judged on the dancing.</p>
<p>Uh, you know—you know, this thing that I’m passionate about. I just love doing it. I love teaching, I love dancing, you know? The, um—the next world championships for same-sex dancing is gonna be in Miami in August of 2017 at the, uh—the World Outgames, and I won’t be dancing, you know? I’ve—I’ve danced at every Gay Game since 1998. I’m the only one. The Gay Games in 1998 was the first time they had dancing, and my partner and I took third. We danced in Sydney[, Australia], and then, let’s see—it was, uh, Amsterdam[, Netherlands], Sydney[, Australia], I wanna say Chicago[, Illinois], Cologne[, Germany], Cleveland[, Ohio]. The next one’s Paris[, France] in ’18, and, uh—and then the Outgames. We danced in Montreal[, Canada] for the first one. We didn’t go to the next ones, and then, um—and then it’ll be Miami. I don’t have a partner. I don’t get to dance. It’s like a four-hour drive from where I live, and I won’t be dancing. It’s just so miserable. I don’t have a partner, and it’s something—you can’t do it alone, you know, and it’s really—you know, it’s hard to reflect on—the 47 years is coming to an end, and I don’t have a say in that. It’s just gonna happen.</p>
<strong>Cravero<br /></strong>It’s tough [<em>sighs</em>]. Um, well, let me see. I—I—you already discussed, uh—I saw that you had to—you overcame rheumatoid arthritis, actually, in a profile I was reading online. Um…
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Oh, was it the one in <em>The Orlando Sentinel</em>?</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>I think it was, yeah.</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Yeah.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>With a picture of me and the dog.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>That’s right.</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Yeah.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>Then that was the one.</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>Um, oh…</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>You’ll see.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>I also saw there that you did, um—you were a technical consultant on the rewrite of a DVIDA[6] American Smooth Bronze Syllabus manual. Could…</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Oh, yeah, DVIDA.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>Could you explain what that is and describe the work you did on that?</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Um, DVIDA is, uh, oh, Dance Vision—D—Dance Vision International—DVIDA—of—Dance Vision International is the company. DA—o I don’t remember what it stands for. A friend of mine, um, Diane Jarmolow, that I used to coach and have known forever, um, she got—she contacted me about helping with the manual, which was very nice. It was great. It was really lovely to be asked, but I’m very technical. People know that I have this profound very deep understanding of dancing, which happened while I lived in New Mexico. Um, I couldn’t dance much. It was, you know, a 60-mile drive to the closest dance studio, which I would do. There[?] was a—a woman there that did some dancing that I could do, but we were only allowed to dance after the studio closed at night, ‘cause the owner didn’t want people seeing us because we didn’t fit the profile—she was the teacher there, and he was afraid that we would scare people off, you know? It’s like wrong level, wrong kind of dancing for what the studio was about, and so two weeknights a week, I would drive to El Paso[, Texas], be there at 10 o’clock at night, and dance ‘til midnight, and drive home and have to be at work at seven in the morning.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Um, but, um, while I was there, I met this woman who did ballet, and her husband—fiancé was a PhD kinesiologist at New Mexico State University and he wanted a project, but, you know, at the time—this was when they were doing a lot of things with, you know, analyzing on video tape athletic performance, ‘cause they were looking at, you know, runners on treadmills or swimmers in float tanks or cyclists on stationary bicycles, and seeing, you know, how do you optimize the human body in motion—and he didn’t want to do any of that stuff. So what I did was taught his w—his fiancé how to ballroom dance while he analyzed what we were doing, which, basically, no one had ever done before. No one had ever looked at the—the—the actual human body while it was dancing in this way, and n—not just one body, but two—how two bodies worked together, and he did this analysis of it with—with knowing nothing about dancing. So all of the language of dancing that had been used for 80-90 years to teach it had nothing to do with what he wrote about…</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>Right.</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Or what he analyzed. So not, “Here’s what somebody has always said about what we’re doing,” but, “This is what the bodies are doing,” and I—so he wrote about that and then I got all that information, and then I had that, so I could write about dancing in—in the dance world, and I wrote papers that would get published about here’s why the feet do what they do, here’s the way that your hold actually works in the frame—you know, not what Patrick Swayze says about it in <em>Dirty Dancing</em>…</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>But what’s actually going on, and that kind of revolutionized the way that dancing was looked at all over the world, and my—my work got spread all over, um, and so because of that I became well-known for this level of technical understanding, and when Diane needed help with the new manuals they were writing, then I got an email. It’s like, “You willing?” It’s like [<em>claps hands</em>] yes.” [<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>“I’ve been waiting for this.”</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>“Fix the stuff that’s wrong.”</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>And so, yeah. I worked on those manuals, and, in fact, my former partner is now working on the new set. He’s up in, uh, Indiana, and he was actually just down here for three days to talk to me about it, ‘cause he’s actually—he’s now the consultant for the next set of stuff that’s being done, um, but yeah, I got a credit in the—in the—in the book and everything, and it’s like “technical consultant,” and it was all this weird stuff. What’s the difference between “brush to” and “brush toward”? What’s the difference between a “brush” and a “collect”? You know, it’s like how to—what’s the difference between “side and slightly forward” and “forward and slightly side,” and it’s like all this really technical stuff, which I’m well-suited to because I love language, you know, from my own issues with language—couldn’t speak for a long time. I love language. I’m a mathematician. So, you know, my—I had a double major at Rollins—mathematics and English—and the dancing is mathematical. The partner dancing is a—is a mathematical construct actually, and then I had all this understanding of what was going on because of this analysis that had been done by this PhD kinesiologist. It’s like, you know—it’s perfect. Love it.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>So cool.</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Yeah.</p>
<strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>] So, um, could you tell us, uh—so you joined the, uh, [Orlando] Gay Chorus. You talked a little bit about how you got involved. Um, do you have a favorite production that you did that you can recall?
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Um, no [<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>It’s—it’s funny. I don’t have a sticky memory for lyrics. Lyrics are so hard for me to learn—that they don’t stick in my brain very well, and, uh, so, you know, people will say, “Oh, we sang this five years ago,” and I’m going, “Really? I was here then. Did we? I don’t remember,” um, but I—I love singing with the chorus. I—I have no interest in doing any of the solo stuff or anything like that. I have zero—I love singing with the chorus, and we do two major concerts a year—the spring and the holiday. Um, I like the spring concerts, but I tend to love the holiday stuff because the music is different, you know? The—the Christmas stuff, the holiday stuff in general—it’s just got this wonderful character, and, uh, learning—learning about music. I mean, I always had to know something about music because of the dancing. I played piano for several years and I—it was the first thing—I didn’t understand at the time, but it hurt. It got to the point where it hurt, and so I quit, and then I was a great believer in <em>I’m young and healthy. Park across campus and walk</em>, and, uh, at Rollins, I was in the math program. The math courses were on the fourth floor of the [Archibald Granville] Bush Science Center. I always took the stairs. I got to the point where I couldn’t climb the stairs. So I didn’t know what was going on, um, but, you know, how did I get involved with the chorus? My partner quit, and I thought, <em>Well, I won’t be dancing. I need something to do that’s interesting, that will challenge my mind, that will be fun, that will get me out in the world</em>, ‘cause I don’t have a regular job. I don’t meet people. I don’t, you know, have people at work. I don’t go out to lunch. I don’t meet people. <em>So I’ll join the chorus. It’ll be fun</em>, and it has been. It’s really lovely, um, but—and I was afraid to sing, ‘cause I hadn’t—I’d been told I didn’t sing well. Well, they didn’t care, you know?</p>
<p>Now, it’s a little different. The—the chorus actually is[sic] improved dramatically from then. Well, you know, the work of Jim Brown—here at UCF—was our director at the time that I joined, and he did great work with the chorus, and now we have a new director, who’s very, very choral. Very, you know—the sound is gonna be the sound kind of thing, and, uh, I don’t know that I could get in now. You know, if I had—if I tried to join now, I doubt that they would take me. Now, I’m okay. I mean I’ve learned, but, you know, between the two of them, I learned a lot. Understanding a music that’s fundamentally different. I love that. I love learning, and then being with the group and doing.</p>
<p>So, you know, particular thing that we sing that I like the best? No, no. I mean, every concert there’s something that I end up really loving, which is usually a surprise. It’s not the thing that I think at first that I’m gonna like, and, you know, something that’s not my favorite, you know—sing it anyway, um, and most of the stuff is like, <em>Oh, this is fun or not</em>, you know? Some things are more fun to sing. Some things—just the sound of them. We did, um, in the last concert before we went to Denver for GALA[7]—one of the things we sang was a song for—“A Prayer for Children,” and it’s an old s—piece. It was written, um, I think about Croatia during the [Croatian] War [of Independence] there, and it’s gorgeous. It’s hard, but it’s so beautiful. Um, when I first joined it was like I had to be surrounded by other people singing my part, and so it was—you know, it’s like, <em>Mm</em>. I can’t stand next to somebody who’s doing anything different than me. I don’t sing that well, and now, normally, where I get placed is standing next to the altos. I sing bass—I sing low bass. So it’s like bass, baritone—we usually sing the same thing, but not always—and then the altos, and so I’m standing next to an alto and the—in the front, and I can hear the rest of the chorus, and it’s so beautiful sometimes. I mean, there’s pieces that we do—the fun stuff I love. It’s great and fun to sing, but the s—I love the things that the sound of them is—it’s amazing to experience, and that’s what I’ve always looked for in the dance music, you know—the sound of the music that I choose for my own choreography is what I’m interested in, but, you know, chorus is great.</p>
<p>It’s—it’s always been interesting to belong, you know? There’s—like any other human endeavor and organization, there’s groups that form and factions, and the politics of it and all that. It’s normal. I’m used to that, but at the heart of it, there’s this thing that we’re doing something that matters as a group. Um, when the chorus was formed 26 years ago, you know, the—the small group of people that did that, they were risking, you know, employment. You know, to be associated with a gay group publicly like that, many of them could have been fired for it. Um, it was a brave thing to do then, um, and y—you know, it’s not like that n—now. We belong. It’s okay in Orlando.</p>
But, you know, this summer’s been kind of insane. We had had our concert, and the—the weekend of the shooting at Pulse there were several things going on. Um, every year right around that time there is the Orange Blossom [Dance] Festival, which is a big country western dance competition, and I always try to go. Um, well, at least one night, go by, dance and visit with people, ‘cause I know a lot of people, and if like—convention friends—you see them once a year, and—‘cause I don’t go to the other stuff, and I’m not a country western dancer, but some of these people do other things. Some of them are involved in the same-sex ballroom, um, and it’s often my birthday, ‘cause my birthday’s June 11<sup>th</sup>, and so, normally what would happen is I would go on the Saturday. It’s the better night. If you go Friday, people don’t stay up that late ‘cause a lot of them have to get up in the morning and compete—dance with their students or dance in some way, and Saturday’s better. A lot of the competition is over. The stuff on Sunday is different, and so, you know, go there, dance all evening. Around midnight or so, get a group of people and we’ll go out. Go someplace where there is music, um, and—music that you can dance to—partner dance to, and that has, in fact, been Pulse in the past, eh, when it matched up. Latin Night—if it was going on—e could go there and dance. That’d be great.
<p>Um, this year, I went on Friday because Saturday night we had one of our, uh, non-outreach—there’s another word—I—I forget this word every time I go to do it, uh—cabaret. We have three cabaret performances a year. One of them’s at the Parliament House. It’s called “Uncut.” It’s the raunchy one, and then we have the—the, um—the h—February Valentine’s Day one. That’s the love one, and then, the—we have the summer one, and this year, it was early in the summer. It’s often later, and, um—and it happened to be on that Saturday, and since it was my birthday weekend—I wasn’t singing. I—it was like, <em>I’ll go</em>, and they had these VIP’s tickets with the reception and the dinner and then the thing, and it’s like, <em>I’ll go to that</em>. So I had the ticket and I went. It was wonderful, had great time, and then it was done and nobody wanted to really go out, and I did not want to drive all the way out to this hotel and see what’s going on because it was late. Any other year, I would have been at the hotel with the dancers and we would have been going to Pulse and arriving about 12:30 and staying until they closed or later—make them stay open and play music. So I would have had, you know, 25-30 people from out of town, who just love to dance, be there with me, and I just, you know—when—<em>I’m tired. I think I’ll go home.</em> That was the decision.</p>
<p>So Sunday morning, I wake up. I look at my phone and I—there’s all these text messages. “Are you okay?” “Are you okay?” And I’m thinking, <em>It was one singer. Yes, I know we sing at The Plaza [Live]</em>, you know, <em>People know we sing at The Plaza. I’m fine. I’m fine. I’m fine</em>, and then I get into the shower and turn on the radio [<em>laughs</em>]. It was like, <em>Turn off the shower, go back to the phone.</em> It’s like, “Oh, my God. I—I had no idea,” you know—listening to the news. I was like, <em>Wow</em>, you know, nut for being tired, I would have been there. I would[?], uh—bringing people.</p>
<p>So I don’t—I’m not a Facebook person really, but I looked to see, and I saw that there was gonna be a special Mass. The, um—there’s a gay, Catholic group in Orlando, and the priest who runs that, uh, used to sing in the chorus with us, and so I take my mother to Mass every Sunday—very Catholic—in Winter Park—St. Margaret Mary [Catholic Church] —very affluent—and, you know—and after Mass and I was waiting to see would[sic] they say anything, and they—and they did. Um, it wasn’t hugely specific, but it was, you know—they acknowledged what had happened, and the violence. Not that it was a gay attack or anything, but—but at least they acknowledged it at Mass, and we left immediately from there and went to the—to the place, which is a bar, you know? St. Matthew’s [Tavern at the Orlando Beer Garden]. Is—it used to be I wanna say Revolution—on Mills[Avenue]…</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>Right.</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Next to the [Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Community] Center [of Central Florida]. Alright, that’s where they have Mass, and so we went, and, you know, we s—we went to Mass there, and, you know, at some point in the afternoon, there was a message that came out about—we had been invited to sing at, um, Joy MCC,[8] and I was like, “Absolutely, I’ll be there.” It was massive. When[?] you show up and there’s all these cameras, and they have relegated them to this corner in the back, and there’s[sic] way too many people, and there’s some seating reserved in the front for the chorus, and there’s not enough. There’s so many of us that showed up, and I felt terrible. I had to sit, ‘cause I—I couldn’t stand. My hip hurt, my knee hurt. I couldn’t—I couldn’t stand for the whole thing. I had to take a chair away from somebody else, you know, but—and then, it came time to sing. So we lined up in the front and, um, we had “True Colors” and, um, “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” and we sang, and, um, by the time I got home, you know, I looked at Facebook and there was a video that had been posted. It was CBS News, and the CBS newsman thought he was so clever. He had gotten the camera spot that was right in the center aisle, and so when we went to do “True Colors,” of course, that’s where the conductor stood, and right in front of him was the soloist, Caitlyn[sp], and so he had a completely blocked view [<em>laughs</em>] of the soloist. He couldn’t get her face—couldn’t get her face, but there’s the camera and there am I.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>And out of this like two and a half minute video, about 60 seconds of it is on my face, and this got posted on Facebook, and re-p—tagged, and posted and posted, and by the time I got home, I had messaged from 11 countries, and it was overwhelming. I mean, you know—we didn’t know a lot yet. We didn’t even know really how many people were dead yet. I didn’t know whether or not I knew anybody. I did—nobody well, no close friends, but it’s a small community. You know—you don’t know what to do. You know what there was to do? Sing. As it happens, I don’t have a day job. So when we get asked to go and sing and—I can say, “Yes.” I can show up at one o’clock at UCF across town for something, or drive out to the [Orange County] Convention Center at crack of dawn and not worry about being late to work, or—I could show up. That’s what I could do, and it was fascinating to see. </p>
<p>We had the Sunday night there and then Monday night at Dr. Phillips [Center for the Performing Arts] on the lawn, which was not supposed to be what it was, but turned into this thing, and—and it just started happening, and we had GALA [Choruses Festival] coming. We knew—and that was gonna change. Everything was gonna change. So we got invited to the—to sing at the formal thing at Dr. Phillips on the 28<sup>th</sup>.[9] I was flying out. I was going early. I have an ex-boyfriend that lives in Denver[, Colorado], and four years ago, I got to visit with him. This year, I was going to do the same. Go early, spend some time with him, meet the husband—you know, of 11 years that I had never met, um—and so I wasn’t—I wasn’t at the first concert at Dr. Phillips inside, um, and I had a few days. I mean, there had been so many things. I think Carol said that between June 20<sup>th</sup>—the 12<sup>th</sup> and the 28<sup>th</sup>, there were 20 outreach things that we did, and I lost count how many I did. You know, some of them were just the ensemble things and s—one or two people, but—but, you know, 20 things that the chorus was involved in, and I had like at least nine that I did in those few days, and I got to Denver, and I had time away from all of it, you know? It was no longer in the news every day, and not what everybody’s talking about. Just time—and, uh, people talk about processing. It was like, <em>Oh, this is what that means.</em> Time to really think—to—to stop and feel, and then GALA would come, and I knew—I knew what it was gonna be like. I mean, GALA’s crazy anyway, and it was gonna be different. We were gonna, you know—kind of like, if you’re gonna be a part of this, you accept an obligation about certain things.</p>
I’m used to—I’m used to being a public figure. Mm—I’m a—I’m well-known in the world of dancing. In the world of same-sex dancing, I’m the grandfather. I’m known. Um, I was well-known in my work in California. I mean, we didn’t talk about it, but I’ve—I’ve done things that people don’t understand, you know? I worked on—when you type on the computer and it offers you the corrected spelling[10] or look ahead,[11] I developed that for the very first system that ever had it—was the—the satellite control system that I did for NASA in the [19]80s. That didn’t become available for a very, very long time. I developed that. The very first clickable interface to purchase—“online shopping” is what we call it now—I developed that. The—the idea that you can get credit by filling out an online form, that was revolutionary. I did that. I designed that. Um, then when you go to an ATM[12] and you put in your money or your check, and it just reads it and tells you—instead of putting that in an envelope and writing on the envelope, and a person has to open it and count it. I did that—not—not for ATMs. Didn’t fit in an ATM when I did it.
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>But that technology was something I developed. That’s what I worked on. I’ve done all these things with computers that have transformed the world as we know it, and that are now a part of everybody’s existence in the Western world, and how we just interact all the time, and my name is not on any of it. I have no patents. I’m not famous for any of it, but the people who were there, they all knew, you know? I walked into a room of computer nerds in the Bay area. Everybody knew who I was. I was the guy that had won a congressional award for software. There wasn’t anybody else that had done that and never has been, you know? I was the guy that walked up to Steve Jobs and told him he was wrong.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>] He was not happy with me. Um, and I—I know what it’s like to be public, and what the chorus was facing was—we were gonna be the face of Orlando—the face of Pulse at this huge thing. When somebody comes walking up and they have to say something to you, or they have to express how they feel, the obligation is listen. Let them. Let them feel what they feel. Let them share what they have to say. Because at that point, it’s no longer about us. People need the space to be able to express, to—to grieve, to process, and we were gonna be their outlet for doing that.<strong><br /></strong></p>
<p>James [A. Rode] was not exactly the kind of director that was used to talking a lot, especially in a performance. The first time he was involved with a performance of the chorus, we sang. He probably said six words to the audience. Not his thing. We were in the waiting area backstage and he spoke to us. We had this set of songs, carefully chosen—changed from what it was supposed to be. I mean, we had—our—our set for GALA was celebratory when we started. Had to change—the message had to change, and some of the music was not music that people wanted to necessarily be singing, um, but it told a story, and he talked to us. “We have an obligation. Find a connection to that music. Relay the message that we’re bringing. It’s hard,” you know, “There’s suffering, there’s pain, and there’s hope. It’s up to us. Create hope, create love.” Like it was beautiful.</p>
<p>So we all walk onstage and we start to sing, as we [inaudible] the ovation, and, you know, you just have to stand there and take it. I used to teach people, “You just gotta stand there and take it.” I made my staff learn to be acknowledged. It’s not easy holding up. It’s not easy, and what did we do? Well, we have to live in Orlando and sing [<em>sniffles</em>]. [inaudible] cause is[?] [inaudible], and then, James read his statement to the audience. None of us had a clue what it said, and then—I mean—oh, God. The man’s eloquent, you know? He’s a schoolteacher, he’s educated, he knows how to write. It was good. It was devastating. It was like—and then, “Let’s sing.” It was like, <em>Oh, no. You’ve gotta be kidding.</em> It’s like—like—I—but, you know, at that point, it didn’t matter. We could’ve stood there and flapped our arms like birds and nobody would’ve cared, and so—but we tried. I mean, by the second verse—it was “You’ll Never Walk Alone”—by the second verse, we—we could maybe sort of sing, and the walkout into that crowd of people.</p>
<p>I remember being in Washington, D.C., you know, mid-[19]90s in like the second March on Washington [for Lesbian, Gay, and Bi Equal Rights and Liberation]. Being on the subway when I lived in the Bay area—you know, one of gay centrals—it’s like, “No.” You know when you ride on BART,[13] you’re not safe. Doesn’t matter that it’s San Francisco[, California], you know? You—y—y—there’s a way of being circumspect, and I’m—I spent my whole childhood being abused because I was different. I didn’t understand that “different” meant “gay,” but they did. I went[?], you know—I—it was a normal part of my experience to be physically attacked on a regular basis. Thrown into lockers, you know, punched and hit—and that was just normal, and n—there was[sic] no adults who really cared. My mother asked me the other day it was like, “Where—wa—was I affectionate as a mother?” And I said, “Not to me,” And she was shocked—just shocked. It’s like, “I’m the wrong one to ask.” I didn’t let anyone touch me. From—from the day—first day of first grade—new school, you know, didn’t know anybody, new city—and the first thing that happened to me was to be attacked. Yeah, I didn’t let people touch me. Dancing was my way of touch. Other than that, no one touched me, you know? Not hug people, barely would shake hands. Not allowed to touch, and you walk out to this—wanting to hug you. I’m not good at hugging. You have to let people, and I had scheduled my flights that I would actually not stay to the very end. I was so grateful. I couldn’t take it anymore [<em>sniffs</em>].</p>
<p>At GALA, they have “coffee concerts” in the morning. They, um—a longer time slot to do something with. A very small, Canadian group had one of ‘em. It was very crowded. I managed to get a seat. It was marvelous. It was funny. Almost every one of the choruses added something in to acknowledge. you know, It was very—uh, um, I don’t want to seem callous, but it was like, you know, one more—“Thanks,” you know, [<em>laughs</em>] but—and the Canadians change theirs—program too a little bit, but what was fascinating to me was they had this woman in a hijab singing with them [<em>sniffs</em>]. She was fascinating. Soaring soprano voice, phenomenally animated—just, you know, capture everyone’s eye when she was onstage, and they—they sang a song in, um, not Farsi, but, um, Arabic, because of her, and, you know, it’s normal, you know? People are leaving the stage and you line the hallways and everybody comes in. Everybody [inaudible]. So I just waited. I waited. I waited.</p>
<p>We had—we had, uh, you know—people had ribbons that we had made and stickers and the Pulse logos and there was like [inaudible], and I wanted to talk to this woman, and everybody wanted to talk to this woman. She had friends there—all this—and I waited, and finally. Finally, there was a camera crew following her around, and I just waited until she was kind of done and all settled down, and she saw me in the shirt—the shirt, and she looked at me and I looked at her, and I put out my hand and it had one of the Pulse stickers in it, and I said to her, “I want you to have this,” and it was extraordinary. Here’s this woman, who turns out isn’t a woman. She’s—she’s a transsexual in process, who is a convert to Islam, who decided to be Orthodox, found an organization in Canada that would accept her for who she is, you know? Coming to America to a major city after a shooting that’s related to, you know, an Islamic fundamentalist supposedly—not really, but that’s the perception—and as we stood there, we talked—I don’t know—20 minutes. It was amazing, and, you know, the stories that she had to tell. Just m—this is—this is what bravery looks like. I was like, “Let’s get the picture,” you know? I don’t do pictures. I always forget, but I have my picture with her. You know, put it on Facebook. It’s mine.</p>
There were—there’s been a lot of things. Um, one of the outreaches was at, um, [John F.] Kennedy Space Center, and not many people could go. It was like, workday, Tuesday, all day, have to be able to get on base. Not everybody would pass the minimal clearance requirements, um, but I could go, and, um, I was like, <em>Oh, this’ll be interesting</em>, you know? <em>I wonder in anybody will know my project</em>, and that was—it was—and, you know, when I worked with TRW Space and Defense, being gay was not a good thing, um, and when we show up it’s gonna be this auditorium full of people, who— ‘cause they have an organization now. It’s like NASA has an organization for gay people. Different world, and—and, yes, you know—people know the project that I worked on. It’s still a meaningful thing. People actually, you know, there were people who know my father’s name. It was amazing, and that was hard. That was—for me, that was the hardest one to sing there.
<p>There’s still—I just—we just went Sunday to the movie theater, ‘cause Tony Romero—I don’t know what his last name is—invited the chorus and a few other people, ‘cause Ellen [DeGeneres] gave him a showing of <em>Finding Dory</em>, which I did not see, and it’s like, <em>Okay, this is lovely. Get to go</em>—it’s changing. We get to reflect differently. We get to look to a future. The obligation to create something meaningful is on those who survive, who are after. It’s like funerals aren’t for the dead. They’re for the living. We’re living. We get to choose what this means. We get to choose what happens. I want—I want there to be a difference. I want the world to wake up and know, and I don’t want it to be because it was a gay club in Orlando, but something has to do it.</p>
<p>You know, you take the populations of Great Britain, and Australia, Denmark, and Sweden, and, you know, several other countries combined—is less than the population of the United States, and we have, you know, up 50 times the murder rate that they do. It’s not just because we’re stupid; it’s because they have gun laws that are meaningful and we don’t. You know, Australia had a mass shooting[14] and they changed their world. It was sane. We’re insane. We’re living in an insane society. I want sanity. I’m tired of it costing lives.</p>
<p>I don’t look forward to my birthday next year, ‘cause it’s gonna be, you know, the weekend of the one-year anniversary. I don’t want there to be a one-year anniversary. There will be. I’ll be there. I wish I didn’t have to. It’s so preventable. We have to be responsible for what happens next. I have to be responsible for what happens next.</p>
<strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>clears throat</em>]. Well, I guess, what sort of, uh—what would you hope the long-term consequences will be for the Orlando gay community, and really just for the city—the larger city or the—just maybe even society from this?
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>You know, [<em>sighs</em>] it was interesting. Um, after this, it’s like you’re driving around town and there’s rainbow lights everywhere, and like, you know, it was August. W—my brother was in town for the weekend or the day with this wife. They live in Melbourne[, Florida], and we were gonna go to brunch up in Longwood. Driving and getting off at the exit in I[nterstate] 4, it was raining, and it’s—and below it is the banner—“Orlando Untied”—with the rainbow flag. I was looking at it, it’s like [inaudible]. I took a picture out of the window of the car, and we got to the restaurant and, you know, had this wonderful brunch, and leaving the restaurant, they have one of those chalkboard things, you know—two-sided, and on the front side g—walking in is all the specials, and on the back side was the “Orlando Strong”—“Orlando United,” but, you know, I don’t—where was I? Longwood somewhere. Casselberry, and there is the CVS [Pharmacy] with the electronic sign out front that cycles through its set of stuff. One of which was “Orland Strong.” I was like—I think it would be beautiful if what would just happen is that we could be the “City of Rainbows.” W—let’s, you know, that—somehow [<em>laughs</em>] the gay community got the rainbow flag. It’s like, <em>Wow, that was smart</em> [<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>I don’t know if they were actually planning that far in advance, but it was like, <em>Wow, we co-opted the rainbow</em> [<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>It’s like, <em>That’s awesome</em>. It’s like “The City Beautiful.” It’s like “The City of Rainbows.” Wow, I would—I would love for all of these city buildings and—and banks and everything else just like keep putting up rainbows. They’re beautiful. We can create all the meaning we want from them. They’re beautiful. That would be a wonderful thing to have happen.</p>
Um, I would—I want gun control that makes sense. I don’t know that we’re gonna get it. I don’t know how we’re gonna get it, because we—our society is literally insane, but I would like that to be an outcome.
<p>I would like that, you know—we have this political season that we’re dealing with. We’re dealing with the rise of fundamentalism. People don’t understand what that means. Fundamentalism is a particular thing in philosophy. It’s—it’s not just an extreme point of view—that’s orthodoxy. It’s not just that “I’m right and you’re wrong.” It is: “I’m right, you’re wrong,” and the existence of other ideas, other beliefs cannot be tolerated, and must be suppressed or eliminated by whatever means necessary. That’s fundamentalism. We’ve seen it in religions—not just Islam. I mean, you know, American Christianity is full of its fundamentalism. “You will believe the way that I say it’s supposed to be or”—and when, you—political fundamentalism—“I’ll get what I want in this bill or this bill will never happen.” There is no such thing as compromise in fundamentalism. Nationalism is a form of fundamentalism. Brexit is fundamentalism. The rise of these nationalistic parties in Europe—that’s fundamentalism. You know, even the idea that the news doesn’t tell us the facts. They tell us how we’re supposed to feel about what happens. No, you don’t get to tell me how to feel, but somehow that’s become part of news. No, but that’s representive[sic] of fundamentalism. It’s, “You don’t get to have your opinion.” There is “the opinion” and that’s it.</p>
<p>As long as that’s true, we’re not gonna see gun control. We’re not gonna see a society where it’s truly safe to be gay. We’ve made huge progress, but that doesn’t change the way that people think, or believe—believe is worse. Belief takes no foundation. There’s—doesn’t have to be proved, and anything that stands in the way of it can be discounted.</p>
<p>We sing, you know—you know, we talk about the—what is our purpose? We’re gonna change hearts and minds from musical excellence. The opportunity that’s been presented to the Orlando Gay Chorus because of this horrific thing is phenomenal. We get an audience that we would never have had, and we get to stand up, and we get to sing, and we get to do it as a gay group, and people get to hear good music, good singing, and it has a message, and we’re gay. I—you know, I talked to the leadership in the chorus and said, “Don’t be afraid. It’s—you’re not—there’s nothing wrong—there’s nothing wrong with capitalizing on this moment.” We’ve said for a long time that we want to stand up and mean something. The opportunity’s been handed to us. The mistake would be to not take it. Say, “Yes.” Do these things. Put the message out there, and do it for the right reasons.</p>
<p>I said to Tony the other day—the business manager—“You know, there are a lot of survivors in a lot of ways. Most of them can’t—can’t stand up and talk to the world. It’s not a part of who they are,” but he can, and I remember eighth grade. There was this thing happening, you know—one of the kids in school—and I went home and I complained to my mother about it, and she said, “Who did you talk to?” I was like, “No one. Not me,” You know, and she’s, “Well, you know? You should.” I was like, “Why?” It’s like, “Well, because you can.” So the next day, I marched myself into the principal’s office and complained on behalf of somebody who couldn’t. Those who can need to. Tony can stand up and talk to the world about his experience, and maybe change the world’s thinking—little bit by little bit by doing that. he should. He’s not opportunistic. He has a message that needs to be heard, and he’s capable of delivering it, and he can do that on behalf of victims everywhere. He should. The chorus has an opportunity. We should. We can. It’s not opportunistic. Yes, does it move our agenda forward—the agenda we’ve had f—long before this happened? Absolutely, but it’s still the right thing to do, and it’s for the right reasons, and that’s what we should do. We should keep saying “yes” to the opportunities that arise, and over time—it’s already happening—that they’re—they’re not about that anymore. We got to sing with the Second Harvest Food Bank [of Central Florida], because I go to their dinners, and I know the organizer there, and she likes me.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>And after this happened, she said to me, “You sing with the Gay Chorus.” I was like, “Yes, I do.” “I wanna talk to you about it.” I was like, “Not the right one to talk to, but, boy, can I get you in touch with the person who is,” and we got to do this amazing event for an audience who we would otherwise never touch. Changed the perception of a lot of things.</p>
<p>We got to sing the national anthem[15] at the First Responders’ Breakfast. This is not a group of people who are gonna just suddenly say, “Oh, gosh. We need to have the Orlando Gay Chorus come and sing.” We’re gonna sing for the AFL-CIO.[16] It’s like Jimmy Hoffa’s[17] union.[18]</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>We’re gonna sing for them. The gay chorus in Orlando is gonna sing for Jimmy Hoffa’s union.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>That was not gonna happen before, and now, it is. So, you know, what’s gonna come of this? I hope that. I hope lots of things like that. I hope a dialogue, in music for us, that lets people have a different experience of what “gay” means, and then, maybe the world really can change.</p>
<strong>Cravero<br /></strong>Thank you so much for sharing that with us today, Richard. I really appreciate it. Is there anything else you’d like to add? I mean I—that was a great—that was a great place to end, I think.
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>No, you don’t—you don’t want to get me started on Lucy.[19] It’s okay.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>] Read the blog.[20]</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>We can always do a second interview.</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Read—read the blog on Lucy.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Did you find my blog?</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>I did.</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Yeah.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>I did.</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Yeah.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>Well, that’s an interview for another time.</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>Oh, yeah.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>This—thank you. You know, it’s like—this’ll go into an archive, and—and who knows? Maybe some researcher a hundred years from now will look at it, but probably, other than that, nothing.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>Aw.</p>
<p><strong>Lamberty<br /></strong>That’s okay.</p>
<p><strong>Cravero<br /></strong>It’s fantastic. Well, this is, uh—this has been Geoffrey Cravero with Richard Lamberty in the conference room of the Center for Digital Humanities and Research at UCF in Orlando, Florida, on Tuesday, October 11<sup>th</sup>, 2016.</p>
<br /><div>
<div>
<p>[1] University of Central Florida.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[2] National Aeronautics and Space Administration.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[3] Acquired immune deficiency syndrome.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[4] North American Same-Sex Partner Dance Association.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[5] European Same-Sex Dancing Association (ESSDA).</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[6] Dance Vision International Dancers Association.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[7] Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[8] Joy Metropolitan Community Church.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[9] Of June.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[10] Spell check.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[11] Typeahead.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[12] Automatic teller machine.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[13] Bay Area Rapid Transit.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[14] Port Arthur massacre.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[15] The Star-Spangled Banner.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[16] American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[17] Born James Riddle Hoffa.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[18] Correction: Jimmy Hoffa was the president of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT).</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[19] Lamberty’s now-deceased dog.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>[20] http://rexl.org/.</p>
</div>
</div>
2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
A Prayer for Children
acquired immune deficiency syndrome
AFL-CIO
AIDS
American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations
April Follies
ATM machines
automated teller machine
Ava Kaye
ballroom dancers
ballroom dancing
Barbara Zoloth
BART
Bay Area Rapid Transit
bullying
cash machines
Casselberry
Catholicism
Catholics
CBS News
Center for Humanities and Digital Research
CHDR
Christian fundamentalism
Christianity
coffee concerts
Colonial Plaza Mall
Croatian War of Independence
dance instructors
Dance Vision International Dancers Association
dancers
defense
Denver
Diane Jarmolow
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
DVIDA American Smooth Bronze Syllabus manual
El Paso
Ellen DeGeneres
ESSDA
European Same-Sex Dancing Association
Facebook
Finding Dory
fundamentalism
fundraisers
GALA Choruses Festival
Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses
Gay Games
Geoffrey Cravero
GLBT
GLBT Community Center of Central Florida
gun control
gun regulations
gun violence
Harris Corporation
hate crimes
hijab
HIV
hoedowns
homophobia
homosexuality
human immunodeficiency virus infection
James A. Rode
Japan
Jim Brown
John F. Kennedy Space Center
Joy MCC
Joy Metropolitan Community Church
Kennedy Space Center Vigil
kinesiology
KSC
Latin Night
LGBT
LGBT Center of Central Florida
LGBTIQ
LGBTQ
Lockheed Martin
Longwood
March Madness
March on Washington for Lesbian, Gay, and Bi Equal Rights and Liberation
Martin Marietta Corporation
mass shootings
NASA
NASSPDA
National Aeronautics and Space Administration
New Mexico
North American Same-Sex Partner Dance Association
OGC
online credits
online shopping
Orange Blossom Dance Festival
Orange County Convention Center
orlando
Orlando Cloggers
Orlando Gay Chorus
Orlando Strong
Orlando United
Orthodox Muslims
outreach events
Parliament House
Port Arthur massacre
Pulse
Pulse massacre
Pulse nightclub
Pulse nightclub shooting
Pulse tributes
RA
rainbow flags
religious fundamentalism
rheumatoid arthritis
Rollins College
round dancing
same-sex
San Francisco
Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida
space
spell check
square dancers
square dancing
St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church
St. Matthew’s Tavern at the Orlando Beer Garden
Steve Jobs
terrorism
terrorist attacks
terrorists
The Center
The Plaza Live
Tom Slater
transgender
True Colors
TRW Space and Defense Park
TRW, Inc. Space and Defense
typeahead
UCF
Uncut
University of Central Florida
vigils
World Outgames
You'll Never Walk Alone
Yugoslav Wars
-
https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/files/original/719d2f1c6a214cfdef26f5845341b10f.pdf
2ed74c217e2ef65413dff53aac55a256
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Orlando Gay Chorus Collection
Alternative Title
Gay Chorus Collection
Is Part Of
Orlando Gay Chorus Collection, RICHES Program
Type
Collection
Digital Collection
<div class="element-text"><a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/">RICHES MI</a></div>
<div class="element-text"> </div>
Subject
Orlando (Fla.)
Music--Florida
Dance--United States
Gay culture--United States
Description
The Orlando Gay Chorus (OGC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts and humanitarian organization, and part of the Gay and Lesbian Association (GALA) of Choruses. Founded on Valentines Day 1990, OGC is not only one of the largest mixed gay choirs in the United States at over 100 members, but they also boast four smaller ensembles that perform annual concerts, cabarets, and a host of community events, such as Come Out With Pride, Orlando Museum of Art’s Festival of Trees, and World AIDS Day memorial services. In 2017, the group performed at over 105 events, including 15 performances for the first anniversary of the Pulse Nightclub tragedy. Members come from all walks of life and all sexual and gender orientations, including straight allies. OGC lives by the motto “Singing the World to a Better Place” and strives to use music to change attitudes and build a stronger community.
Oral History
A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge.
Interviewer
Campbell, Tyler
Interviewee
Strack, Joel
Bit Rate/Frequency
128kbps
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
Oral History of Joel Strack
Alternative Title
Oral History, Strack
Subject
Orlando (Fla.)
Music--Florida
Mass shootings
Memorials--Florida
Gay culture--United States
Description
An oral history interview of Joel Strack, one of the founding members of the Orlando Gay Chorus. The interview was conducted by Tyler Campbell in the conference room at the Center for Humanities and Digital Research (CHDR) at the University of Central Florida (UCF) in Orlando, Florida, on September 26th, 2016. Some of the topics covered include founding the Orlando Gay Chorus, naming the chorus, the initial community reaction, women in the chorus, the evolving relationship with the community, becoming a mixed vocal group, hearing about the shooting at Pulse nightclub, vigils, outreach events and fundraisers, coping and seeking counseling, the Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses (GALA) Festival, the Orlando community’s response to the Pulse tragedy, the long-term impact on the Gay Chorus and the Orlando community, and an increase in membership.
Table Of Contents
0:00:00 Founding the Orlando Gay Chorus<br />0:05:27 Directors and accompanists<br />0:08:17 Initial community reaction<br />0:11:16 Women in the chorus<br />0:12:23 Evolving relationship with the community<br />0:14:11 Becoming a mixed vocal group<br />0:16:16 Mass shooting at Pulse nightclub and its aftermath<br />0:24:12 Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses Festival<br />0:27:20 Community response to Pulse tragedy<br />0:30:12 Long-term impact on the Gay Chorus and the Orlando community<br />0:33:50 Final remarks
Abstract
Oral history interview of Joel Strack. Interview conducted by Tyler Campbell in Orlando, Florida, on September 26, 2016.
Type
Moving Image
Source
Strack, Joel. Interviewed by Tyler Campbell, September 26, 2016. Audio record available. <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, Orlando, Florida.
Requires
Multimedia software, such as <a href="http://www.apple.com/quicktime/download/" target="_blank"> QuickTime</a>.
<a href="http://www.adobe.com/products/reader.html" target="_blank">Adobe Acrobat Reader</a>
Is Part Of
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/omeka/collections/show/206" target="_blank">Orlando Gay Chorus Collection</a>, LGBTQ+ Collection, RICHES of Central Florida.
Has Format
Digital transcript of original 36-minute, and 26-second oral history: Strack, Joel. Interviewed by Tyler Campbell. Audio record available. <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, Orlando, Florida.
Coverage
GALA Choruses Festival, Denver Performing Arts Center, Denver, Colorado
GLBT Community Center of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida
Joy Metropolitan Community Church, Orlando, Florida
Orlando, Florida
Orlando Museum of Art, Orlando, Florida
Pulse, Orlando, Florida
Valencia College, Orlando, Florida
Creator
Strack, Joel
Campbell, Tyler
Publisher
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Contributor
Campana, Kayla
Cravero, Geoffrey
Date Created
2016-09-26
Date Copyrighted
2016-09-26
Format
video/mp4
application/pdf
Extent
234 MB
188 KB
Medium
36-minute and 26-second audio recording
13-page digital transcript
Language
eng
Mediator
History Teacher
Humanities Teacher
Music Teacher`
Provenance
Originally created by Joel Strack and Tyler Campbell, published by <a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>, and transcribed by Geoffrey Cravero.
Rights Holder
<a href="http://riches.cah.ucf.edu/" target="_blank">RICHES of Central Florida</a>
Accrual Method
Item Creation
Curator
Cravero, Geoffrey
Digital Collection
<a href="https://richesmi.cah.ucf.edu/map/" target="_blank">RICHES MI</a>
External Reference
Ahlquist, Karen. <a href="http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/62281651" target="_blank"><em>Chorus and Community</em></a>. Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 2006.
Page, Robert, Louise Greenberg, and Fred Leise. <a href="http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/43552259" target="_blank"><em>The Chorus Handbook: Chorus 101 : the How-to Book for Organizing and Operating a Professional or Volunteer Choral Ensemble</em></a>. Washington, D.C.: Chorus America, 1999.
Boedeker, Hal. "<a href="http://www.orlandosentinel.com/features/os-orlando-gay-chorus-25-years-20150611-story.html" target="_blank">Orlando Gay Chorus marks 25 years</a>." <em>Orlando Sentinel</em>, October 18, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/features/os-orlando-gay-chorus-25-years-20150611-story.html.
Ogles, Jacob. "<a href="http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning" target="_blank">Pride in Orlando Will Take on New Meaning</a>." <em>The Advocate</em>, October 6, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.advocate.com/pride/2016/10/06/pride-orlando-will-take-new-meaning.
Hyman, Jamie. "<a href="http://www.watermarkonline.com/2016/06/16/community-rises-mass-shooting-orlando-gay-nightclub-kills-49/" target="_blank">Community rises up after mass shooting at Orlando gay nightclub kills 49</a>." <em>Watermark</em>, June 16, 2016. Accessed October 18, 2016. http://www.watermarkonline.com/2016/06/16/community-rises-mass-shooting-orlando-gay-nightclub-kills-49/.
Click to View (Movie, Podcast, or Website)
<a href="https://youtu.be/VuV-MWPkf0A" target="_blank">Oral History of Joel Strack</a>
Transcript
<p><strong>Campbell<br /></strong>It’s September 26<sup>th</sup>, 2016. My name is Tyler Campbell and I am conducting an oral history with Joel Strack of the Orlando Gay Chorus. The interview’s being conducted in the conference room at the Center for Humanities and Digital Research at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida. Um, can you start by, uh, telling us your name and how you came to be associated with the Orlando Gay Chorus?</p>
<p><strong>Strack<br /></strong>Yeah, my name is Joel Strack, and, um, I actually have the distinct position of being one of the founding members of the [Orlando] Gay Chorus, and even sort of, um, uh, before the Gay Chorus, when it was still in its, uh, idea state, I had a—I had a gay cousin—still have a gay cousin, Nardy, and Nardy sang with the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus, and the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus was going to a GALA Festival. GALA is the Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses, and they do a—they did at that point a festival about every three years, and so they were doing their GALA Festival in Seattle, and Nardy asked if I wanted to join him so he had somebody to hang out with while they were in Seattle, and I said, “Sure,” um, got set up, um, with tickets and everything, and as I sat there watching these choruses from throughout the U.S. perform, I said, “We’ve got to have this in Orlando. This would be something”—and I started saying that out loud to people, you know? “O—Orlando’s gotta have something like this,” and, um, along the way, someone said, “Oh, you need to talk to David Schuler. David Schuler sings with the River City Gay Chorus—or Mixed Chorus—and, um, he’s moving to Orlando, and he wants, you know—it’s one of his dreams, because he was an executive with the River City Chorus—to be, um—to have a chorus here in Orlando.” So David and I met on the steps outside of one of the concert halls. I remember standing there in my overalls, ‘cause that was fashionable of—at the time, and, um, chatting with David about, you know, how this might work out.</p>
<p>I was sitting on the Board of Directors here in town for what was then, uh, GCS—the Gay Community Services. Now it’s The Center,<a title="">[1]</a> and so I was sitting on the board at GCS, and I went to the board, um, when I got home and said, “Wo—would the board be willing to set aside a certain amount of money as seed money for this organization—this new organization to get its legs under itself?” And the board, um, did set aside $500, which was a pretty big chunk of money back then, for the group, um—for us to be able to do a seed concert, and David sort of took over the helm, because he’d been part of the GALA choruses already, contacted the South Florida Gay Men’s Chorus and the Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa, who came in and actually did the f—initial concert at Valencia College, and, um, so we had our—our first, uh, concert, and everybody who came was given the opportunity to sing up if they were interested in getting more information about the potential of starting a gay chorus here in Orlando. We ended up with about 65 people that signed the list. When we had our first gathering and contacted the people, about 30 people showed up, which was a pretty good ratio considering, and, um,—and that’s sort of when it started happening, um, and that’s how I became involved, um…</p>
<p><strong>Campbell<br /></strong>And w—what year was that?</p>
<p><strong>Strack<br /></strong>This would have been 1991 or ’90. ’90 would have been the seed concert and the meeting. Um, and then we actually incorporated, um, on February 14<sup>th</sup>—on Valentine’s Day in 1991—was the incorporation of the Orlando Gay Chorus, and I remember those first meetings as we were m—moving towards incorporation, w—what’s—what’s your name gonna be? What’s our name gonna be? And we—is it gonna be “Gay” first or is it gonna be “Orlando” first? ‘Cause there was lots of, you know, “The Gay Chorus of New York” and the “Gay Chorus of Boston,” uh, and—and are we gonna use the word “Men’s” in our title or is it just gonna stand alone, “Gay?” And it got pretty, um, um, intense as people were talking about why they thought a different placement of words, what words—are we “The Gay Chorus of Central Florida?” Are we “Greater Orlando?” Are we just “Orlando?” All of those things were part of the discussion, and, um, one of the founding members was Penny [Jo] Chessmen, and so having a woman singing a tenor part with us led a number of us to say, “Well, we can’t disqualify her by choosing ‘Men’ as part of our name,” and, um—and she was pushing—or not pushing. She’s—the suggestion came up that it would be the “Gay and Lesbian Chorus of—of Orlando” or “Central Florida” or whatever. Anyway, that was—that was a—a[sic] interesting lead-in to actually becoming incorporated, and David, uh, became the first president of the chorus. Um, through a sort of a behind-the-scenes search, Charlie Callahan, who was the, um, uh, Composer-in-Residence at Rollins College, was contacted, and he became our first, uh, director, which was a coup for us.<br /><br />Um, his—he was a classic music person, uh, that was world-renowned for his organ music. He—he would go and travel through Europe playing organ concerts. Um, interestingly enough, because of that and not working with vocals so much, his style of directing [<em>laughs</em>] was a little bit different than what we currently got[sic] and what we had since then. Um, the first, uh, accompanist was Terry Thomas, and he then became our—when Charlie left, I believe he became our second, um, director, and then he also—Terry came back and became our emergency director at one point. Um, uh, one of the directors had decided, “I’m done” or they had to move or whatever reason. We were—we needed, uh, a director on the fly, and Terry came back to us and actually—and so he’s sort of our little angel savior, uh, director, and over the course we’ve probably had 9 to 12 different directors over our 27 year history. Um, a—a broad variety of individuals with m—m—many different skill sets that they brought to the table, and I think it’s one of the things that made the chorus really strong—was that this person, um, uh, Aubrey [Connelly-Candelario]—Aubrey, um, focused on production. He came from a musical theater background. So suddenly we were doing costumes and sets and—and surprise moments, and not just standing and singing. Um, Absalon, uh, Figueroa came to us, and he was an accompanist, but he was sort of a New Age-y, um, uh, guru-type guy from Canada. Uh, he was living here, um, with his—later to be his husband. Uh, they m—moved to Canada because he—his husband couldn’t stay here, or he couldn’t stay here. So they both moved to Canada. Now they live in Hawaii…</p>
<p><strong>Campbell<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>].</p>
<p><strong>Strack<br /></strong>Happily married. I love how things change in the world, um—but Absalon brought, uh, a healing, um, and a—an empowerment sort of spirit to the chorus that was needed at that time because we’d had a[sic] unfortunate experience with a director just prior to Absalon. So every—every director sort of brought in their own gift and made the chorus that much better.</p>
<p><strong>Campbell<br /></strong>Um, how was the—the chorus received in the community in the first—in that early period?</p>
<p><strong>Strack<br /></strong>[<em>laughs</em>] Um, initially, we were sort of, uh, th—th—the arts community didn’t want to have anything to do with us. We actually, um, uh—there was an arts magazine that was published quarterly, and we, um, contacted them to get an advertisement put in about our next—our upcoming holiday concert, and, uh, they refused it because it was too controversial. That—it wasn’t the name of the holiday concert. It was that it was a gay chorus, and they just didn’t want us—anything to do with it. Uh, Valencia College, where we did our first seed concert—we went back to them to try to rent out that same auditorium for our concerts and they refused us, because we weren’t a student organization—was their reasoning, or—or, uh, representing the students of Valencia, and so, uh, we’ve had a number of, um, eh, prickly, uh, unwelcoming experiences during those early years.</p>
<p>Now, th—the—the gay community, the G—GLBT community, was, uh—we were—when we went onstage the first—for our first concert in, um, June of ’91—would have been—yeah—June of ’91, we went onto the stage at the [Orlando] Museum of Art in Orlando—Orlando Museum of Art in their theater, and all of us were like, “W—how is this gonna play in Orlando?” You know? Y—we couldn’t have been more loved. It was—it was just a really, really intense—almost like—almost like the audience had been waiting for something that was that uniquely geared to them that was public and accessible, and it was—the—the—the energy in the room w—we’re—we’re singing and the energy is flowing off the stage, and the audience is there sending it all back at us. It was just—it was really cool, and we still get a lot of that feeling today, but that first one, because we didn’t know—you know, there were people onstage that thought that, you know, somebody’s gonna, uh, do a false alarm or a bomb threat or—and, you know, that, uh—to make sure that this concert didn’t happen, and there—so there was a lot of fear, and there were individuals in the chorus that would not put their names into the program. Even though they were standing there publicly, to have it written down somewhere that somebody could pass onto a boss or onto a principal of a school, eh, or, you know—they just didn’t have their names printed or they used aliases.</p>
<p><strong>Campbell<br /></strong>Mmhmm.</p>
<p><strong>Strack<br /></strong>So those were the early years. Um, it was, uh—we all sang, uh, men’s voice parts even though there were always females in the chorus. From Penny on, we never did a concert without a female or several females onstage with us, but we sang, um, tenor one, tenor two, baritone and bass, and so, most of the women that joined us would sing senor one. Sometimes they’d sing it up an octave. Ironically, um, in our last concert—no, not the last one—the one before, um—one of our bass twos—the low bass parts—was a female—Linda—Linda Knutson. Yeah, I was a section leader at the time and sitting next to her during, uh, rehearsal, and, um, I—I took a bass two part because they—we were just shorthanded, and so I said—and I’m sitting next to Linda and I’m like, [<em>laughs</em>] “You hit those notes way better than I do. Have you ever considered joining the bass two section?” She’s like—she’s like, “Well—well, okay.” So she became our—our low bass—one of our low basses.</p>
<p><strong>Campbell<br /></strong>Um, how have you, uh, kind of—if you can kind of describe the—the—the change—maybe the reception of the community over the course—from when you first started to maybe this year. Um, has that relationship with the community changed and kind of in what ways?</p>
<p><strong>Strack<br /></strong>Yeah, um, definitely changed, and part of it was that, um, as the gay and lesbian community in Orlando came out, um, the arts community started recognizing us not as a key element or a gem within, but part of a tapestry of art organizations here in Florida. Um, the audiences—interestingly enough, our audiences are—uh, when they do the demographics studies, um, our largest segment of audience members are straight women over the age of 60, and in—again, I think it’s due to the outreach and then the changing nature of how people perceive the gay and lesbian community.</p>
<p>Um, we’ve gone through—depending on who the director is— we’ve gone through different phases of being a little more campy or a little more serious, um, and I—I think that that adds to the totality of what people perceive us to be, and that’s not just, you know—we—we will do the number of “Men in Tights” with—with the sugar plum fairies being the big ol’ bears coming across the stage, dancing th—in their tutus, but it’s one piece within the whole concert. So we’ll—we’ll be self-defacing and joke and be campy, but it’s not all we have to offer, and—and I think the—the community’s responded.</p>
<p><strong>Strack<br /></strong>Probably the biggest change we had during that time was going from being a men’s vocal, uh, group to a mixed vocal group, which we are now. It’s, um, soprano, alto, tenor, bass, and, um, because we kept promoting females joining the chorus, um, one of our presidents, Rob Noll—it became his mission to have more women in the chorus, and so he did a lot of artreach[sic]—outreach and effort to try to get more women, but at certain point[sic], I mean, how can you have women that normally sing soprano having to sing tenor? You know, it’s—it’s hard. It’s not enjoyable for them, and so, w—the—the chorus leadership after Rob, very—uh, I—I won’t say strategically, but very carefully—we started having more and more music where the women starting singing soprano and alto, and, you know, it was two pieces in this concert and there was[sic] four pieces in the next concert, and then pretty soon, it was all the pieces in the concert, and it was never like any—nobody put a stake in the ground and said, “We’re becoming an SATB chorus”—and that’s soprano, alto, tenor, bass. It just—the leadership knew that’s where they wanted to end up and they slowly brought this massive group of unique individuals into that reality, and by the time it happened, anybody[?] who[?] went, “All the music’s SATB?” You know, it’s like, “Yeah, it is.” [<em>laughs</em>] You know, it’s just—it’s sort of a matter of fact now, and p—and there were people that left. There were men that left because that went against their reason for wanting to sing, um, but few—few and far between, and it expanded the number of women that we had, so—because suddenly they were a—a—actually able to sing soprano and alto.</p>
<p>Um, one of the other—eh, back to the question about the community and how the community responded, um, huge, huge, um—the Pulse massacre was probably one of the biggest, um, or—or the most impactful moments for the chorus to take its position within not just the arts community, but the whole…</p>
<p><strong>Campbell<br /></strong>I—I—I kind of want to get into that a little bit more. Um, just you on a personal level, um. How did you—how did you hear about the shooting happen[sic]?</p>
<p><strong>Strack<br /></strong>Mm, um, I am retired, and so I was sleeping in on that Sunday morning, and it was probably 10:30 or so, and, um, I turned off my phone when I went to bed, because my friends have a habit of deciding to send pictures and comments at, you know, 12 at night and one in the morning, and so I had the phone off, and I turned my phone on and there was just a rolodex of—of folks that had sent text messages to me, and, you know— “Are you okay?” “Are you there?” “Is there”—and I—<em>This is really odd. Why in the world</em>—and then, as I started, um—some of ‘em started getting a little more specific. “I just wanted to check to make sure you weren’t, uh, at—at Pulse last night or, um, d—eh, that you weren’t injured.” “I just want to hear from you,” and I went, <em>What?</em> Eh—eh, and then I did, um, my Google search and went, <em>Holy mackerel</em>, and I became part of the web of—“I haven’t heard from you. Is”—my friend Rob, that[sic] I mentioned that was the president, I—I called an, uh, he—nobody answered at his house, and he’s the type of person that might go out to that, uh—Pulse on a whim. Um, me—it’s—it’s not a club I normally would go to. Um, it’s—the crowd is way younger than the people I would be hanging with, but Rob might do that just on a whim, and we couldn’t get a hold of him. He wasn’t answering his cell phone and he wasn’t answering the house phone, but I had his roommate, Sherry[sp]—so I called Sherry’s phone, and she was out walking the dog. I said, “Sherry, I just want to check to make sure Rob’s at home. Is Rob—Rob there?” She goes, “Well, yeah. He was sleeping this morning when I got up.” I’m like, “Okay, just—just wanted to check,” but that was happening everywhere, and to—to spend an hour, hour and a half, two hours checking to see if your friends are alive was really mind blowing. It was so, um—what’s the w—a word that I wanna use for it? It was, eh, eh—it was just unimaginable that—that this could be part of my world now, so—but that’s how I found out—was through people checking in to make sure I was okay, and then I’d reached out to people that might be concerned about me—my parents, family and friends outside of the Orlando area—to make sure they knew I was okay.</p>
<p><strong>Campbell<br /></strong>Hm, um, when was the first time that you got in touch with—that the chorus, uh, decided to maybe have a meeting or anything about th—the actual shooting? Did you guys get together that day, or…</p>
<p><strong>Strack<br /></strong>Um…</p>
<p><strong>Campbell<br /></strong>Any time soon?</p>
<p><strong>Strack<br /></strong>The Sounds of Freedom Band [and Color Guard] by chance was doing their concert, um, i—in Loch Haven Park at the theater there, eh—The REP,<a title="">[2]</a> and so a number of us got together to go and be with the community, and then the next night, um, we did our first vigil, as I recall. Eh, it was at the Joy Metropolitan Community Church, and the word just spread to the chorus. It wasn’t—there was, you know—“Alright, we’re gonna meet. Here’s what we’re gonna wear,” and we’d done outreaches before, but nothing on this short of a notice. So, uh, we got together and did the—that vigil, and, uh, some of the—some of the tapes went international from that night, and then we’ve probably done an average of three to five a week ever since.</p>
<p><strong>Campbell<br /></strong>And can you just explain a little bit, like, uh, how those experiences were and anything that sticks out to you in particular?</p>
<p><strong>Strack<br /></strong>Um, for me personally, I think, uh, it was so, um, fulfilling and, um, comforting to have a task, so that I couldn’t go into my own head. I, you know—there was this to get done. We were gonna go perform at the, um, uh, [AIGA Orlando’s] Love by Design today. Tomorrow, we’re doing this. Um, th—there were people in the chorus that started carrying their chorus wardrobe in their cars in case an event—an outreach event or a vigil or something—a fundraiser came up during that they that they could jump into their clothes—drive straight to the event and—and have their clothes with them, um, but it—i—it was—I—I—I went through probably, um, three days of just totally numb, sort of zombielike experience. Um, anything could make me cry. I al—I wear my emotions on my sleeve anyway [<em>laughs</em>]. So this just was like, “Oh, good. I’m brushing my teeth and just sobbing,” you know, um, but, uh, those three days went by and I took advantage of The [LGBT] Center [of Central Florida]’s, um, counseling that they were offering—free counseling to people, and so I went in and talked to a—a woman for about 15 minute[sic], and I think—well, I’ll share with you what I shared with her.</p>
<p>Eh, my—my big internal issue was that I’m—by nature, I’m a Pollyanna. I—I like making people happy. I like—I like keeping things i—in a positive space, and it was hard for me—whenever there was even an inkling of—like looking at the chorus and going, <em>This is gonna bring us closer together. This is gonna be such a good emotional, um, outcome for us as a—as a[sic] organization</em>, and then I’d—and then I’d go into my, <em>How can you say there’s something good that comes out of this?</em> And so that’s what I had to talk with her—with the counselor about—is I feel guilty trying to find the silver linings, and, um, she—she did a nice job, and by the time I walked out, I—my head was back on square again and I was able to move on—still numb, but much more myself again. So that was—that was pretty big. Probably, um, continued to have that, um, out-of-body sort of feeling for about three weeks, and then it—then it subsided and I started getting my legs under me, and we—we traveled to the, um—the festival in Denver in, uh, first part of July. So we went to the Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses big festival, and, um, we as a chorus [<em>laughs</em>]—you know, the 6,000 people—singers—and they’d been sending us videos for the last like week and a half, three weeks.<br /><br />“W—We Stand with Orlando.” Singing songs that were significant to them, reflecting ‘em on the Pulse ex—um, tragedy, and they would s—you know, “We’re with you, Orlando,” and a lot of it, because it was chorus-to-chorus, was directed right at us—not just the community, but to our singers—and so when we got there to Denver, the outpouring of affection and, um—I made the joke. I said, “At this point we could go onstage and all of us burp in unison [<em>laughs</em>] and the crowd’s gonna go crazy,” [<em>laughs</em>] you know, ‘cause w—we just—we could do no wrong at this point, um, and that wasn’t necessary in the end, uh, but to be there was so healing to so many of us I think, ‘cause it—it was—it was such a, um, uh, clear program that had been put out for us. You know, you can ten—attend this block of s—concerts or this block, and—and this is where we’re gonna get together for this party, and—and every—you—you got to focus on that instead of on doing another vigil.</p>
<p>We did get our wonderful moment onstage, and it was amazing. It was amazing, yeah—and, uh, our director, James [A.] Rode, uh, did a little speech in the mid—in—towards the end of it, um, that described sort of what our experience was as a chorus, and, uh, then wrapped it up with inviting the—the—the theaters weren’t big enough to hold everybody, so there was—you’d have concerts running simultaneously, but we had probably three thousand people in the theater we were in, and James invited ‘em to join us. Um, our final piece was, uh, “You’ll Never Walk Alone” from Man of La Mancha, and so, you know, three thousand other singers—and even they—some of them wrote on—on the webpage for the GALA Choruses their experience, and—and shaking and feeling weak in the knees, and, um, the emotional—that if they hadn’t been there with their brothers and sisters in song, help and hold them up, they would’ve crumbled.</p>
<p><strong>Campbell<br /></strong>Um, how do you feel that the—did you feel that the shooting has changed th—the—the group’s relation to the community in Orlando?</p>
<p><strong>Strack<br /></strong>Tremendously, yeah, um, and I—because of our exposure, I think as any—as much as anything else—I mean, we—we went and sang at the, um, Orlando City Soccer [Club] game and the, um, organizers contacted the, uh, ticketholders and invited them—if you’re sitting in sections 17 through 29, wear green, and so we ended up with this rainbow around the stadium, um, and these are people that probably had never—many of them probably never even knew the Orlando Gay Chorus existed in Orlando, and yet, because of the tragedy, um, they—they stepped up as members of Orlando’s community, supporting, um, the gay community as well.</p>
<p>Um, one of the other things I—I found really exciting during this—is I think the Latin community, um, stepped up in a way, connecting with the gay community that hadn’t been as, um, easygoing or as—as generous, and, um—and likewise. I think the gay community felt for the Latin community—not just those people that got killed, but the—the hurt and the pain wasn’t just ours, and which—to me, I think that’s what’s made—that’s the silv—that’s the big silver lining, you know, that the Orlando—the City of Orlando, um, proved itself to be a community that could face some really wicked tragedy without the response being anger or hatred, um, or scapegoating—that, uh, from the city leaders all the way down to grandma and grandpa in their house, you know, on my street that put out their “Orlando United” sign in front. It was such a wonderful thing to see that this is—this is where I live.</p>
<p><strong>Campbell<br /></strong>Um, and that kind of brings me to my next question. Where do kind of see the relationship between, uh, the Orlando Gay Chorus and the community going moving forward?</p>
<p><strong>Strack<br /></strong>Um, we’re already seeing it, I think, to a degree. We are—we’re getting invited to be a part of events that normally, um—that wouldn’t reach out as far as the Gay Chorus. It would have been these church choirs and that high school choir and th—the community chorus of Orlando—that’d be the group they’d put together for this event, and now, we’re on that list. Now we’re a—a prominent piece of that invitation, um, to a point where I think there’s consciousness of, uh—“And we can’t leave them out,” you know? “They’re—they’re such a significant part of our community,” and because of the exposure we’ve had—excuse me—uh, the exposure we’ve had over the last few months, um, we’ve—people know that we’re pretty good, you know, [<em>laughs</em>]—that, uh, as a musical group, we’re not a flash in the pan, and you—i—if you want to give them money for your ticket, but you don’t go, “You’re not missing anything.” It’s not that way, you know, um, and like to—yesterday, which would have been the 25<sup>th</sup> of September, we, um, worked with the Second Harvest Food Bank [of Central Florida]. They provided the food, we provided all the entertainment—atmospheric as well as a concert—at the Second Harvest Food Bank to raise funds for these two very disparate non-profit organizations, and I—that never would have happened, I don’t believe. You know, maybe—maybe I’m—maybe I just have my blinders on, but I think that that’s one of the things that, as we move forward, we’re getting those opportunities, um, and bringing our story to the, you know—the general public in a way that we never had a chance to do before.</p>
<p><strong>Campbell<br /></strong>And, uh, what did—did your membership change any a—after you started g—getting more, um, uh—I don’t want to say screen time— but more—more visibility in the community? Did people want to communicate with you all and—and maybe join the chorus? Or have your numbers kind of stayed the same throughout?</p>
<p><strong>Strack<br /></strong>Um, we definitely saw a bump. I know that the interest—again, it’s probably twice the number of people that actually came to audition, um, but we’re over a hundred, and we were down to about 80, um, prior to, um, the Pulse massacre, be—and partly I think it’s because people just didn’t even know we were there, and partly I think it was because, um, some people wanted to step up and say, “I—I need to be a part of this forward motion that’s happening in Orlando,” and so—yeah. It, um—the demographics are about the same as far as age and, um, sexuality. We’ve—we’ve got[sic] a lot of, uh, straight allies that are part of our—our, uh—to[?] women’s section. We got our first male straight guy that’s gonna be—hopefully, he’ll be singing with us if—he just joined the chorus, um, but the general population percentages are about the same as they were before.</p>
<p><strong>Campbell<br /></strong>Um, is there anything else, uh, about the chorus or about, um, the chorus’ response to the—to the shooting that you’d like to talk about today?</p>
<p><strong>Strack<br /></strong>Hm, I think—well, this is gonna—I, uh, was at a point in my history with the chorus after having sung with them in every concert for 26 years, I was ready to quit. Um, I just—you know, I s—there were things going on that I didn’t necessarily all[sic] agree with, um, and I just had decided to myself, you know, sometimes, you just need to move on for your own—and for the organization’s, you know, benefit, but when—and th—there was another person in the chorus I know for a fact was in that same space, um, and after becoming such a valuable entity in the community as a chorus, and doing the vigils and doing the fundraisers, and, um, help—we—we started using that—the, um—“Love, Hope, and Healing”—“the Ambassadors of Love, Hope, and Healing,” and so, as that transpired and I got to watch that in re—in real time, I said, <em>Uh, maybe—maybe I need to stick around</em>, because this—this has really refocused us back to what I feel the chorus was supposed to be about, you know? It was—it’s more than just doing a concert and standing onstage. It’s—it’s building people’s pride. It’s being—yeah—more than a musical group. I was—I’ve said it’s three things. It’s music, it’s socialization, and it’s, um, political. Just the fact that we gave “gay” in the name makes us a political organization, and the socialization within the chorus members is so significant to my happiness, and then, of course, the music. You have to do—have musical excellence to be able to get an audience in the seats, um, and—and it’s really—it’s brought me back to the chorus again ever since, so another silver lining.</p>
<p><strong>Campbell<br /></strong>Well, thank you so much for talking with us today and—and for participating in this program.</p>
<p><strong>Strack<br /></strong>It’s my pleasure.</p>
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<p><a title="">[1]</a> GLBT Community Center of Central Florida.</p>
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<p><a title="">[2]</a> Orlando Repertory Theatre.</p>
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2016 Orlando nightclub shooting
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