The tragedy of the Orlando shooting is one that will be engraved in history as an unnecessary attack on the LGBTQ+ community. It was not only a hate crime, but a homophobic assault on people who were just simply enjoying a night out.
Many people have come out with a bundle of support in light of the massacre, and Ricky Martin is just one of the few who have told us to “break out silence” and take action immediately by calling our congressman in regards to gun control.
In regards to these gun laws, Ricky Martin states:
There are a series of issues in play here, but the United States of America has an undeniable problem with gun violence. How many more lives need to be lost before we do something about lax gun laws? How can a person previously tied to terrorism and interviewed by the FBI on several occasions be permitted to work as a security guard and still have the ability to legally purchase guns? How can we continue to stand by an amendment ratified in 1791 to justify an incomprehensible proliferation of firearms in the U.S? You know what else was permitted in 1791? Slavery, dueling as a way of settling arguments, consensual sex with children above 10 in most states (Delaware was 7), wife beating as a valid exercise of a husband’s authority over his wife, and the list of absurdities goes on and on. Today, we know better as a society. We are more civilized. As President Obama stated, “To actively do nothing is a decision as well.” People continue to say it is their right to bear arms. What about our right to feel safe?
102 people were shot for loving people. Loving people that may seem “taboo” in aspects of different cultures around the world. But why must violence be enacted? Why must the LGBTQ+ community continue to face such violence. The world may be slowly improving its acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community, but there’s obviously still a long way to go.
In other words, actions must be taken. Actions must be placed. Because if this ignorance continues, only more people will end up hurt again – both physically and emotionally.
Martin ends his letter with a lasting powerful and emotional delivery:
I ask you to BREAK YOUR SILENCE and call each and every one of your congressman – those you elected into power to represent you and your ideals – 10 times each day until they act. Set a timer if it helps, but make the calls. And most importantly LOVE. Love with all your heart. Love those close to you, and those you don’t even know. Be kind, be empathetic, be compassionate, be generous. Fill your life and words with nothing but love. I have faith in humanity. I refuse to accept that this is the world my children will inherit. I will never cease to fight for love.
To read the full Ricky Martin letter, head to Univision.com. For more breaking news updates, sign up for our e-news letter and follow us on our Twitter @CelebMix today!