Lady Gaga stood among thousands of people to read the names of each of the 49 victims killed at the Orlando nightclub Pulse last weekend. The vigil was held at city hall in Los Angeles on Monday.
Speaking about the shooting, she said, “As we have now witnessed the largest mass shooting in American history, I can’t help but feel that this level of hatred, like all prejudicial crimes, this is an attack on humanity itself. Tonight, I gather humbly with you, as a human being, in peace, in sincerity, in commitment, in solidarity, to take a real moment and mourn the tragic loss of these innocent, beautiful people.”
The 30-year-old further added, “Tonight I will not allow my anger and outrage over this attack to overshadow our need to honor those who are grieving truly for their lost ones, lost members of the LGBT community. I hope you know that myself and so many are your allies.”
Gaga originally posted her thoughts about the tragedy on Twitter, writing, “I pray for all the victims families during this shooting epidemic. That their pain be met with compassion and support from the world. It’s a traumatizing and emotional time for a many people. I dream of the world reflecting on what we can do to change this violence. #Orlando (sic).”
New information continues to be unveiled regarding the shooter, Omar Mateen, as several survivors spoke with media outlets describing the horrific events. Two of the 53 injured have also come forth to express their experience and condolences.