The June shooting at Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida that killed 49 victims and injured 53 others left a devastating mark on the world. The memorials for those affected continue to pour out, including a special Human Rights Campaign tribute produced by Ryan Murphy and Ned Martel that was released Wednesday. The extremely powerful and emotional video, which you can watch below, also features 49 celebrities honoring the Orlando victims. Yes, 49 stars for 49 victims, who all take the time to recount individual stories about each of the people killed in the nation's deadliest mass shooting by a single gunman, in addition to being the deadliest incident of violence against of LGBTQ individuals in U.S. history.
The bevy of stars who reflect and remember each victim, include Lady Gaga, Cuba Gooding Jr., Connie Britton, Matt Bomer, Sarah Paulson, Angela Bassett, Lea Michele, Colton Haynes, Sophia Bush, Jane Fonda, Melissa Benoist, Caitlyn Jenner, Emma Roberts, Kerry Washington, Demi Lovato, Jamie Lee Curtis, Chace Crawford, Evan Peters, John Stamos, Laverne Cox, and many, many others.
The video is something near and dear to Murphy's heart, who said in a statement shared on the HRC's website:
The hate that stole these 49 individuals from all those who loved them has been allowed to flourish in our country for too long. No person is born hating another, and we have an obligation as Americans to stand up against prejudice and bigotry that would incite violence against someone simply for who they are. I am proud to have joined with Ned Martel, my talented colleagues, and the Human Rights Campaign to honor these 49 heroes and stop the hate.
Please take the time to watch the 18-minute tribute. It will be worth your time to learn more about each of the victims and will also hopefully show others how important it is to spread love, not hate.
Image: Human Rights Campaign/YouTube
