Toronto – June 13, 2016 – Paul Meinema, the National President of UFCW Canada, released the following statement today regarding the horrific mass shooting in Orlando, Florida:

“Yesterday we woke up to the terrible news that a lone gunman shot and killed dozens of innocent people, while injuring over fifty others, at a LGBTQ nightclub in Orlando. On behalf of the 250,000 members of UFCW Canada, our thoughts are with the families of the victims, and the community of Orlando, as they grieve this senseless act of violence.

While we are still learning all of the facts of this brutal attack, we know that it was motivated by ignorance and hatred, as the gunman targeted a nightclub where members of the LGBTQ community gather to sing, dance, and socialize with friends. And so it is clear that much work remains ahead of us in eliminating prejudice towards the LGBTQ community, and raising awareness to achieve full equality for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

As we stand in solidarity with the people of Orlando, and mourn the loss of those killed in this tragedy, let us resolve to continue fighting for equality, and to condemn all forms of hatred in our society.”