I have been fortunate enough to grow up in a pretty accepting part of the south, and I have never really been afraid of being open with my sexuality in public. But this changed that. I was uneasy being out with a friend today, I was extra cautious and nervous when people looked at us too long. I mean if this can happen in one of our last safe places, I don’t even want to imagine the things that could happen in places that aren’t safe! My heart hurts so much for everyone personally affected by this, as well as the rest of the community. I just don’t understand this hate that has consumed our nation in the past few years.
I live in Orlando, me & my sister just went on Sunday morning to donate blood. We stood in the hot sun for almost 2 hours. But it was extremely satisfying, & worth it.
I am a gender conforming, polyromantic, demisexual person. I do not live in Orlando but it absolutely breaks my heart to see people ca only who they are. It sickens me to no end that these people have to suffer. What have we ever done other than love? It almost resorts me to tears. My heart and soul goes out to everyone who is affected by this.
Prayer? Seriously? Why are you bringing prayer into this? Does it not occur to you that lots of _nonreligious_ people might want to do something about this as well? Why are you excluding us?
It's scary to think that I've been around for only 14 years, and I've been here for Paris, Boston, Belgium, Orlando and so many more. And I do have to say, I am scared for my life. I'm scared for my community, my family and my friends. These attacks need to stop.
It's going to be ok I promise I'm in the same boat I was visiting family around Boston during the bombing and I felt so afraid. I'm afraid to travel to Europe for college because of the Belgian attack and I'm afraid to be out because of the shooting but we need to stay strong and be ready to face more situations like this because that's the world we live in today. All we can do is stay strong be smart help those affected and live our lives to the fullest because we don't know if we will be next.
You have to keep in mind that radical 'Islam' has killed their own people more than anyone else. Also the shooter was American and gay and couldn't accept that he was gay and that's why he did what he did.
+Yasmin S. I'm aware about radical 'Islam' has killed manny Muslim people my best friend of many years is Muslim so I don't blame the Islam faith I blame the actual people involved like the shooter and people who plant a bomb not those who are innocent victims of a stigma and horrible circumstance .
On Friday night I was at Selena Gomez's concert having one of the best nights of my life. Afterward, I found out that someone who had impacted my life so much for 6 years was shot in cold blood 8 minutes away from where I was. I was already mourning Christina Grimmie's death when I woke up to your tweets the next day and found out 49 more people were murdered down the street from where she was shot. 53 people were injured and families didn't know if their loved ones were alive. I turned on the tv and saw a girl that I know talking to the local news. They said she had blood on her shoes. I have just started to come out so this is all extremely terrifying and I haven't stopped crying in 4 days. It's hard for the people around me to understand how all of this feels so thank you so much for sharing this video.
Wow...I really feel bad for you. I really hate that our government and the media have the power to deceive and make some random girl cry for 4 straight days. Too bad you didn't have an older sibling or parent who was wise and knew how to spot out a hoax from a real story. Save the prayers and pray for wisdom kid. #orlandoshootinghoax
+Dontell Demus Well its been a real fight for the LGBT community to even get there and if you don't like it then just stay away because the things you say can really effect people's life's.
As someone who isn't part of the Muslim community, I want to express how sorry I am that awful extremists who don't even practice the best and most loving parts of Islam keep sullying the good name of Islam. And I'm even more sorry that there are bigots who think people like him make up some sort of "majority" in your religion because that is SO NOT TRUE. Sorry if this is offensive I just had to get that thought out
A lot more muslims really needs to start speaking out against the more orthodox teachings of Islam, and in favor of more liberal interpretations of the faith(wherein you can more or less choose which verses you accept, and which you don't, kinda like Christianity), good on you for doing just that! We really needs to stop acting like these attacks has nothing to do with Islam, they obviously do. Sure, most muslims would never dream of doing anything close to what the orlando shooter did, that does not however, mean the Islam teachings aren't extremely backwards and even dangerous.
You give so many people a voice! Orlando's tragedy will always be carried with us and drive us forward as a community. My heart goes out to everyone suffering and grieving!
this has impacted me and the people all around me all the way in texas, so i can't imagine how hard this all is for people who, like you, were/are close with people in the LGBTQ+ community in orlando or viewed pulse as a safe haven like you did. my heart goes out to all of the people in the orlando community, love you steph
+Just Focus and Observe i don't know tbh, but staying strong and sticking together as a community will do nothing but help in times like these, so i think that right now, that's our best bet if we want to remain hopeful
I'm so scared to come out to my parents now, they've always been extremely homophobic and my dad even stated that he thought it was GOOD to get rid of some "slum" (as he called it). I'm "just" bisexual, I can just imagine the pain and fear you have if you're trans or gay now. I hope you all stay strong and remember that love is stronger than hatred. kisses. ♡
Don't ever think being bisexual makes you any less a part of the LGBT community. You are just as important as anyone else, believe me. Also, I hope for the day that you feel comfortable and safe to come out. Sending so much love you way
Put your safety first. Don't do anything that's going to put you in danger. If you can find a someone who can give you housing in case of emergency please do it.
i've seen/heard people talk about how they're glad that 50 LGBTQ+ people were killed and it pisses me off so much. right now i can't decide whether i'm more sad or angry because homophobic people are making this situation even more awful than it already is
i wish you the best of luck with your parents. it's awful that some people have made it so that we have to say this, but remember to only come out to them when it is safe
I grew up in the goth, LGBTQ+, and kink communities of Orlando as well. I'm from just north of there in Lake County and going to Orlando felt so supportive and comforting and I got to see and be around "my people." I felt included and loved for who I was by the extreme kindness of the people of Orlando subcultures. I've never been to Pulse, but a friend of mine worked there for a few years and is also quite close with them. Others still attend events there. Hearing about the attack broke my heart. I am now in the Pacific NW and not being able to physically be there to help those affected has been hard for me. Please, everyone, if you can, send your monetary support to our brothers and sisters to help them through this time. If you're in Central Florida, please give blood and plasma to help those still hurting. Especially if you're Type O.
I'm an Australian and I was just as shocked and devastated when I saw it on the news, I hope they take this tragic event seriously and push for stricter gun laws in America.
I'm French and I'm also gay but now I don't feel safe anymore. I lost my faith in humanity and I'm ashamed of being a human. What happened is just awful. Take care of yourself and be safe. love
i'm in a similar feeling and situation to you. i'm half closeted (out to majority of friends but not family) and i actually planned to publicly come out on social media 5 days from now. i had planned the event months (even a year) in advance and after the shooting, i just feel as fearful and trapped as i was a few years back. I no longer feel safe of just loving another individual and i did a week back. please stay safe and stay strong, humanity will slowly become better (:
I was having the time of my life at Pride in Pgh (Kesha performed!) and to wake up Sunday morning to this was like whiplash. I can't put together the words to describe this pain. I love you Steph, stay strong
So heart breaking. Yet so strong. My love goes out to anyone who has lost a loved one, my love goes out to anyone who feels unsafe and my love goes out to anyone who is fighting for our cause!
Thank you so much for this video.. I am so scared and I was crying every day this week.. but your video made me strong. Thank you so much it means so much to me. Love you ❤
Thank you steph for speaking out, I was just in tears listening to you... A lot of youtubers don't know the power you guys have on viewers. We look up to you and the courage you have to get in front of a camera and speak your mind.
Thank you so much steph, I really needed this video.. On Saturday night before I found out about the shooting, I had a huge fight with my parents. I came out 7 years ago and since then my dad failed to accept me fully and because of that I had always felt unloved and had this anger that never quite left me. So at dinner Saturday night, I cried and he told me he still couldn't accept me, and he wouldn't be coming to my wedding or acknowledge my relationships. And when I told him I'd be cutting him out of my life, because I just didn't wanna live with the anger of being unloved by your parent... He just said that I was being selfish, and that wanting him to change his mind and accept me, was the equivalent of him trying to change my sexuality.. Anyway, the second morning, I was on snapchat and I found out about the shooting, and I started to cry so hard. I was so angry. I needed this video.. I'm making it a point to be more out and proud now than ever, I've changed my Facebook to be the gayest social media account I have, and made statuses telling everyone who's in any way homophobic to unfriend me.. I love you steph, stay strong.
As the photographer at Pulse and Diva Invasion for years, I'm just numb... I have photos of most of those killed, having a great time, at such a great place. Thank you for this video, I love you!!
Steph, thank you so much. You give me hope with every one of your videos. This video needs to be seen by more people. I only hope I can do something about this tragedy
This was beautiful. Im so sorry for your loss. this helped and affected me and i know it will to many others. Not only does the community in Orlando need to stay strong, but all the communities over the U.s. We should and we have somewhat come together and show our support, love and strength and fight for what is right. Much love.
I've watched a few UA-cam creators video responses but this one gave me chills. I'm so sorry for your loss personally and I'm so sorry for the loss our community has suffered by losing these beautiful people. #loveisnotafraid
This video absolutely broke my heart! Steph, my heart is with you and any of the ones that have fallen. My city is showing their love and everyone in my local community came together and did a minutes silences for those hurt and fallen.
I know that you are so very close with Orlando, so I have really been waiting since Saturday to see what you would post about this. I've got to say that watching your videos really do make me feel better and that we are all here for you, we are all here for eachother! We love you steph!
I don't live in Florida, but I'm terrified to hold my girlfriends hand in public now. I don't have shame in my girlfriend my of course, but I'm scared one of us will get hurt. It's so sad that so many people are terrified to be themselves. This world will tell us to go out and do what makes us happy, but when any one of the LGBTQ+ community goes out doing what makes them happy, there own lives are at risk. I hate this world of hatred we live in but I won't back down in trying to spread positivity and love.
This is the most beautiful and inspiring video I've ever seen in my life and I'm so sorry that you have even more personal ties to this than a lot of people and that this even happened at all. I love you and your strength and how you give other people strength. Your tears aren't a sign of your weakness because I see your strength radiating throughout this entire video. I am so thankful for you and others like you who only want to spread love and positivity. Thank you, Steph, for being one of the strongest ones and keeping us strong
Im not out yet, but i remember begging my mom earlier in the year to let me go to the Pride Fest near me, and not being able to "because people get shot at those." This is a beautiful and insightful video, and my heart goes out to everyone in this community. Thank you, Steph.
I'm not one to normally comment on UA-cam, but I needed to thank you for making this video. Unlike you, I've never been to Florida, never crossed paths with anyone who was in that club, but when I woke up on Sunday morning and learned what had happened I was so effected. I felt anger, and Fear, and helplessness. I live thousands of miles away, in rural Oregon. My Parents, My friends and Family, they don't understand why I feel the way I do. When I was talking about what happened earlier today my sister brushed it off and said to me, a proud out lesbian, "it wasn't that big a deal, people are only talking about it cause it was a bunch of gays." I know she didn't say it to be mean, but suddenly I felt 15 again. I felt like I was alone and no one around me could understand. You posting this video reminded me their are people out there who do understand exactly how I feel, so thank you!
I decided to come out to my parents especially because of what is happening in Orlando and also the tragedy which could happen in LA. I also told them that I won't be quiet and now I'll tell everyone that what happened it's, like you said the act of hate against us. 😠 I'm 17 years old woman from Poland and I watched your video, I couldn't look at you and see your tears. I know that a lot of people are writing here, but I still have hope that you'll read this. ❤
You are so true Steph. In this terrible time we must all be united to support our community. I'm so sorry that you are going through this on such a personal level and send you and whoever has lost anyone in the shooting my condolences.
Thank you so much for this , it really helped me. You're such an inspiration to me for posting this, I cannot thank you enough. I hope I will one day be as strong as you.
I love you all so much, even though I have never met any of you. Our community transcends borders, religions, race, class everything. That's how strong it is. We are unified and have to only fight back by becoming more loving and accepting after this. peace x
THANKS ! Je suis française, mais je me sens tout autant concerné. Je ne comprends pas ce monde. Et tu dis très bien ce que je pense. Tuer pour de l'amour? WTF bordel ! Merci à toi pour ce message. Et oui, j'écris en Français, pour vous montrer aussi qu'on est là. Courage à tout le monde
contente de voir que je suis pas la seule fan francophone de steph mdr (je sais qu'il doit y en avoir plus hein) mais même en belgique j'ai pleuré des heures et des heures parce que le monde part en couilles, je voulais faire mon coming out à mes parents cette semaine mais j'ai emcore plus peur maintenantparce que je suis pas sûre que mon père acceptera. quoi qu'il en soit, il faut qu'on reste fort. to the lgbtq+ people, be loud and proud to be who you really are
Alaska Venhya mdr, il doit y en avoir un paquet oui ;-) en rajoutant toute la clique tel que : briandchrissy, ally hills, arielle, ali spagnola etc..sans oublier les québécoises ;-) (Non non non, je ne regarde absolument pas l'univers lgbt sur youtube ahahah). Plus sérieusement, oui il faut être fort, il faut être soi-même, s'accepter tel que l'on est (à tout les niveaux). Il n'y a que comme ça que "les autres" prennent conscience qu'on est là, et qu'on est tous différents. ce n'est pas en se cachant que les mentalités changent. Je ne connais pas ton âge, ton histoire, donc je ne parle pas pour toi spécialement (car selon le contexte...) Mais n'ai pas peur. Si tu le sens tu le fais, sinon non. Je dirais juste que tant que tu es honnête avec toi-même, que tu t'apportes ton bonheur... pour ton père : les gens sont étonnants, on ne peut jamais savoir. Mais il ne faut pas servir de ce contexte pour que les gens aient des réactions disproportionnées. Au contraire, ce contexte devrait (selon moi) ouvrir encore plus l'esprit des gens. Montrer que ce n'est que de l'amour, qu'il n'y à rien de mal. Que tuer un être humain pour son amour c'est quoi??? c'est justifié? NON, alors ACCEPTER les gens tels qu'ils sont.
+vivre ses rêves merci, ça me donne beaucoup de confiance en moi haha bah disons qu'à l'école presque tous mes potes le savent, après les autres m'ont rien demandé mais ranafout mdr et sur internet je suis complètment out au début, je comptais faire mon coming out soit quand j'aurais une copine, soit quand j'aurai 18 ans (dans 2 ans quoi) afin que si on ne m'acceptait pas à la maison, j'aurais ou avoir mon prope chez moi d'un côté cette attaque me donne très envie de montrer tout ma gayitude (wtf? mdr) à ma famille directe parce que je me dis qu'il faut que je vive ma vie à fond ces jours-ci parce que je ne sais pas si y'aura un lendemain toussa toussa
Alaska Venhya effectivement, à ton âge, chez tes parents, ce n'est pas toujours évident. C'est fou qu'encore aujourd'hui des "jeunes" de ton âge se posent encore ce genre de questions par rapport aux familles. Je dis que c'est dingue, car quelque part cela montre bien que c'est encore difficile, que ce n'est pas simple. Sinon il n'y aurait pas toutes ces questions. je pensais sincèrement qu'aujourd'hui "ça passait" mieux, mais plus je me ballade sur youtube, plus je vois que non. J'espère pour toi que ça se passera bien, que tu le dises ou non. Faut suivre ton instinct, ta petite voix intérieure. Je l'ai dit tôt à ma "très proche famille" mais longtemps je suis restée cachée même en l'ayant dit...Ben quelque part je me suis exclue moi-même de ma propre vie. Et ça, tu le réalise tard (oui bon, j'ai à peine presque le double de ton âge mdr) Je comprends ton envie de montrer ta gaytitude (ben oui, top ce mot :-) Et après-tout, construit ton bonheur, c'est toi qui en détient la première étincelle
+vivre ses rêves c'est quand même pas très commun les lgbtq+, en france il n'y en a qu'environ 1 million et certaines personnes qui vivent toujours dans le moyen-âge n'acceptent en aucun cas tout type d'homosexualité ou autre et sont énormément sexistes je suis encore jeune, et je veux faire du monde un endroit où tout le monde peut être qui il est, et ça sans que ça ne pose de problème à personne, je veux vivre dans un monde où hommes et femmes et autres sont égaux, où le gouvernement pense ouvertement en pensant à tous types de gens je sais que je n'ai pas vécu dans la pire époque, mais je veux que le monde soit encore mieux quand j'aurai des enfants et que leurs camarades soient élevés par des parents ouverts d'esprit, je veux que tout le monde soit comme ça le problème c'est que le racisme, sexisme, meninisme et l'homophobie (et j'en passe) existe et que ça sera comme ça pendant encore très longtemps j'ai envie d'essayer de faire mon coming out ce mois, notre mois merci beaucou
oh... my ... gosh... thank you so much Steph, this really touched me, and I know your not the only one feeling that way. I too have been feeling so much hurt when the news came up. I agree with your terms. We should all be more out and proud than ever. . . Again, thank you so much
And you can't give blood in the US if you're English or if you lived in England for more than two years... Safety is one thing. This is something else. Hugs to you and your girlfriend. Be proud and strong.
Sending love and strength to you, Steph. I cannot imagine the pain you feel because of how close Orlando and Pulse are to your heart. On Saturday morning, I finally began to feel the most affirmed, happy, and loved I ever have in my identity; now I am more scared, angry, and sad in it than I have ever been. Stay strong everyone.
Steph, you have inspired me so incredibly much. I want to personally just thank you. Thank you so much. Through my journey coming out, I have always felt accepted through the community of amazing people online. I found so many amazing people, including you. You are an amazing activist, I am proud to say that I am proud to be who I am, and I am proud to love who I love. I will not let fear silence me. I love you, so incredibly much.
Steph, I'm in tears this is the most beautiful, raw and heartfelt video I have ever had the pleasure to watch. Stay strong. Our pride will never be silenced❤️💛💚💙💜
I love you so much Steph you are such a strong beautiful person and your videos give me so much strength, you helped me to accept myself, to come out, and now you're continuing to help and give support with this video, the Orlando shootings are something that's really hit our community hard but i'm constantly overwhelmed with your love, compassion and will to help others, I've watched your videos for so long and have watched you evolve and i'm so proud and happy to have found them, you deserve all the love in the world, continue to be a wonderful human
I've been sad and terrified and sick to my stomach since Sunday but your video has made me feel empowered. I am gay and i am HERE and I'm proud of who I am!!
❤️ What an amazing wonderful video!! So much love, such a strong words... I can't believe what happened in Orlando... And I'm sorry for everyone affected by this crime. I feel sorry for all the lgbt+ people. But I'm proud of you speaking these words! Together we unite and together we will spread love and give the world the colors she needs. Keep strong! Xxx
Sending you so much love from Tallahassee, my aunts both went to UCF and still live in Oveido. I feel your pain as a fellow LGBT Floridian, the outpouring of love and support here in North Florida has been incredible, even the mayor of Tallahassee came to the candlelight vigil that took place last night in the capitol and gave an amazing speech. We are all #OrlandoStrong.
I feel like I don't understand the hate against us, the lgbtq. Victims couldn't defend their selves. How can someone determine that a person gets to live or not. It's not there decision to make. I'm so sorry for what happened. And I all the families love and support but also our community. We are stronger than this. We will fight our way back. The world needs to be safe. Fight the wrong people. Not the innocent ones! I live in the Netherlands and we don't have a community here that helps people for who they are. And I wish I could make a difference but I don't know how? I really want to make a change for our community.
Thank you for sharing this, hun. Speaking up and talking about it is important... hate only breeds more hate, and the world doesn't need any more of that...
Steph - I'm so thankful you use your voice and you do it so naturally and honestly. I'm over here in the UK and the sadness is all around the world in response to this - I'm proud to be me (after many years). - I accept myself - I refuse to be afraid - I send love to everyone London Pride this year we will stand strong
I've been following you and your videos for 2 years or longer I think and tbh the moment I heard what happened in Orlando I had to think of you and what impact it'd have on you. First of all, I'm sorry for your loss even if you didn't knew them that well but you knew them nonetheless which means it's hurtful for you. But I also wanted to thank you for uploading this video. It kind of have me hope. Our pride parade is in 4 weeks and even though I have problems with masses of people I'll attend it and walk for all the lives lost, hurt and impacted. Thank you Steph💚
I'm already out . It's only been a few months .. But haven't told my dad yet cause he lives far away and the only way was to email him at the moment. This whole tragedy really made me realize that you never know what can happen. So I told him. Be proud of who you are. I'm scared , we are all scared. But we need to keep on pushing foward ..
I'm so sorry Steph. We must stand together in this time of atrocity. Praying for everyone and anyone who has lost someone dear to their heart in the past couple days. You'll never be forgotten ❤️
I live in South Florida but I can tell you that when people heard, everyone ran to the blood banks. I was one of them. People brought food and water and we all talked and spent the whole day there. As more nurses came, we applauded them. Every time a donor left, we applauded. It was bittersweet because something terrible happened, but it was beautiful to see people come together and do whatever they could to help.
I currently live in Orlando. Moved here about a year ago. My mom woke me up to tell me the news. I had wanted to get involved in the LGBT community here so badly. I wanted to take my mom to drag shows (she wanted to be introduced to the culture). I wanted to meet other people and get involved. That was delayed because of work and lack of transportation. And now it's even more delayed out of fear for my own safety. I feel uncomfortable even wearing anything with a rainbow on it around here. And worst of all, my family, my straight friends and colleagues ... they will never fully understand how much this has impacted me personally and those around them who are in the LGBT+ community. Yesterday a person came in to my work wearing a superman shirt, only the S was in the style of the pride flag. I nearly started crying right there. We need each other. We need to be kind to each other. We need to stick together. I am unable to donate blood again, due to my work schedule and lack of proper transportation, but I am donating what I can.
This video is the most honest, wholesome and true piece of media I've watched related to the hate crime in Orlando. I agree 100% with everything you had to say. Love and acceptance is and will always a billion times stronger than hate.
My friend and I went to the Vigil last night in Brisbane Australia for Orlando. Was very moving and emotional. And this video was very powerful, sends a great message and also made me tear up a bit. I can't even begin to imagine what you and other LGBTQ+ people living in the U.S are feeling right now. Stay safe, love you very much ❤️💛💚💙💜
Now I just want to hug you and all the families who have lost someone there :( It's so scary for closeted people to hear that they are not safe even in places like that, I love you brothers and sisters.
Steph you are amazing. When I heard what happened in Orlando I was so heartbroken cause even if I have never been there I truly feel like this act of hate is against all of us, especially against the LGBTQ+ community, around the entire world. You're so right about us needing to be stronger than ever. We can't let hate win! If everyone's out and pride I believe that sometime all people will understand that's all just about love. Sending you lots of love from Germany❤️💛💚💙💜 we're ONE community! #lovealwayswins
this video brought me to tears. I don't get how someone could be so horrible and have that much hate.. hopefully our community will continue to be strong even after this major tragedy.
I honestly cried with this video... No one could have ever expressed better in this matter. No one could have ever expressed my thoughts this well. I love you Steph. We will stand and keep fighting. Harder than before.
I don't live in Florida, I don't even live in the US, but this has affected me so much that I've been crying on-and-off ever since I woke up one afternoon and saw it on the news. I don't know what help I could provide since I can't donate blood and I'm kinda broke, but my heart goes out to everyone, to the victims, to the viewers, to my fellow members of the LGBTQ+ community. I am sending my love and and my support from across the globe. I love you guys. Love overpowers hate.
im in australia, its absolutely sickening i think being a lgbt person it hits hard to home and is such a sickening thing , here for all the community in orlando xx
I was suppose to go Florida at around the end of them month with some family. I do not know how I feel about going anymore. I cannot explain to my family.
My heart goes out to anyone affected by this shooting and mainly to the family and friends of the deceased and injured. As an gay teenager this is hard to hear and chilling. But I know that we as a community as a world can come back together and be stronger than ever before.
oh damn i've never been this early to a video. STEPH WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH. we can't stop fighting, we won't give up. they can never take away our pride ❤💛💚💙💜
My favourite video of yours, thank you for recording it and standing strong for our community. I wish your country would ban automatic and semi automatic weapons like mine did in 1996.
i live in a small village and i am already terrified off coming out because i am scared of the way people will react and treat me, and this attack has made me even more scared of how i might be treated if i was to come out. I cant believe that someone would carry out such a hateful attack especially on a community that already suffers form hate and discrimination on a daily basis, my heart goes out to everyone in America
I've been crying for 3 days about it. And it's made me very scared to do anything anymore. But I agree that this is where we fight harder for our freedom.
As someone relatively new to the LGBTQIA+ community, this is absolutely terrifying to me. I live up in Canada, and the scariest thing for me is that this could very well happen here, too. Yes, it does happen in the US way too often- which is heartbreaking- but it could just as easily happen anywhere, anytime, on a small scale, or larger scale. My heart goes out to all affected by this devastating event in Orlando, you have Canada's support! 🍁💝🍁
My heart broke in thousand pieces when that massacre happened but you are so right! our community must be out and proud and stronger than ever before!!! love will win, not hate!!!
What's your story? How are you feeling? Let me know in the comments
I am sooooo sorry, Steph. I have no idea what else to say. Love from Germany.
I have been fortunate enough to grow up in a pretty accepting part of the south, and I have never really been afraid of being open with my sexuality in public. But this changed that. I was uneasy being out with a friend today, I was extra cautious and nervous when people looked at us too long. I mean if this can happen in one of our last safe places, I don’t even want to imagine the things that could happen in places that aren’t safe! My heart hurts so much for everyone personally affected by this, as well as the rest of the community. I just don’t understand this hate that has consumed our nation in the past few years.
I live in Orlando, me & my sister just went on Sunday morning to donate blood. We stood in the hot sun for almost 2 hours. But it was extremely satisfying, & worth it.
+make be why? In the light of this horrible horrible event, I don't feel like arguing. I am just too sad. 😢
I am a gender conforming, polyromantic, demisexual person. I do not live in Orlando but it absolutely breaks my heart to see people ca only who they are. It sickens me to no end that these people have to suffer. What have we ever done other than love? It almost resorts me to tears. My heart and soul goes out to everyone who is affected by this.
You're Amazing!! ❤️🙏🏽🌈 #PrayForOrlando
#PrayForOrlando
Prayer? Seriously? Why are you bringing prayer into this? Does it not occur to you that lots of _nonreligious_ people might want to do something about this as well? Why are you excluding us?
#PrayForNewGunLaws
+lazyperfectionist1 : Prayer is not for everyone.. I know. Do what you can to to help! No one is excluding you. ❤
+lazyperfectionist1 well I also spoke about encouraging action and asking questions that need to be answered...we need to do it all!🙌🏽
It's scary to think that I've been around for only 14 years, and I've been here for Paris, Boston, Belgium, Orlando and so many more. And I do have to say, I am scared for my life. I'm scared for my community, my family and my friends. These attacks need to stop.
It's going to be ok I promise I'm in the same boat I was visiting family around Boston during the bombing and I felt so afraid. I'm afraid to travel to Europe for college because of the Belgian attack and I'm afraid to be out because of the shooting but we need to stay strong and be ready to face more situations like this because that's the world we live in today. All we can do is stay strong be smart help those affected and live our lives to the fullest because we don't know if we will be next.
You have to keep in mind that radical 'Islam' has killed their own people more than anyone else. Also the shooter was American and gay and couldn't accept that he was gay and that's why he did what he did.
+Yasmin S. I'm aware about radical 'Islam' has killed manny Muslim people my best friend of many years is Muslim so I don't blame the Islam faith I blame the actual people involved like the shooter and people who plant a bomb not those who are innocent victims of a stigma and horrible circumstance .
i am also scared for my life and the community.
+DisneyDreamworks Dork That is one of the smartest things I've heard recently. (you blaming the person, not the faith) Thank you for being rational.
On Friday night I was at Selena Gomez's concert having one of the best nights of my life. Afterward, I found out that someone who had impacted my life so much for 6 years was shot in cold blood 8 minutes away from where I was. I was already mourning Christina Grimmie's death when I woke up to your tweets the next day and found out 49 more people were murdered down the street from where she was shot. 53 people were injured and families didn't know if their loved ones were alive. I turned on the tv and saw a girl that I know talking to the local news. They said she had blood on her shoes. I have just started to come out so this is all extremely terrifying and I haven't stopped crying in 4 days. It's hard for the people around me to understand how all of this feels so thank you so much for sharing this video.
Stay strong, and be proud of who you are X ❤️💛💚💙💜
Thank you guys so much. It means a lot.
+ClassicDaydream ❤️💛💚💙💜
Wow...I really feel bad for you. I really hate that our government and the media have the power to deceive and make some random girl cry for 4 straight days. Too bad you didn't have an older sibling or parent who was wise and knew how to spot out a hoax from a real story. Save the prayers and pray for wisdom kid. #orlandoshootinghoax
I love you.
Love you 💜
💕💕💕💕
+Dontell Demus Well its been a real fight for the LGBT community to even get there and if you don't like it then just stay away because the things you say can really effect people's life's.
Samantha Green you're awesome
As a Muslim I am Support LGBT communicate. and I am sorry for what happened in Orlando.. RIP
As someone who isn't part of the Muslim community, I want to express how sorry I am that awful extremists who don't even practice the best and most loving parts of Islam keep sullying the good name of Islam. And I'm even more sorry that there are bigots who think people like him make up some sort of "majority" in your religion because that is SO NOT TRUE. Sorry if this is offensive I just had to get that thought out
I love all the love in these comments ❤️
❤❤
The shooter attacked Pulse because he was gay and couldn't accept that he was.
A lot more muslims really needs to start speaking out against the more orthodox teachings of Islam, and in favor of more liberal interpretations of the faith(wherein you can more or less choose which verses you accept, and which you don't, kinda like Christianity), good on you for doing just that! We really needs to stop acting like these attacks has nothing to do with Islam, they obviously do. Sure, most muslims would never dream of doing anything close to what the orlando shooter did, that does not however, mean the Islam teachings aren't extremely backwards and even dangerous.
You give so many people a voice!
Orlando's tragedy will always be carried with us and drive us forward as a community.
My heart goes out to everyone suffering and grieving!
this has impacted me and the people all around me all the way in texas, so i can't imagine how hard this all is for people who, like you, were/are close with people in the LGBTQ+ community in orlando or viewed pulse as a safe haven like you did. my heart goes out to all of the people in the orlando community, love you steph
+Just Focus and Observe i don't know tbh, but staying strong and sticking together as a community will do nothing but help in times like these, so i think that right now, that's our best bet if we want to remain hopeful
I am out in a mall. Constantly having too look over my shoulder. I really am devestated and torn by this. :(
please be careful
+Rainbow Universe I will be.
a mall in orlando?
+sayitshay No.
I'm so scared to come out to my parents now, they've always been extremely homophobic and my dad even stated that he thought it was GOOD to get rid of some "slum" (as he called it).
I'm "just" bisexual, I can just imagine the pain and fear you have if you're trans or gay now. I hope you all stay strong and remember that love is stronger than hatred. kisses. ♡
Don't ever think being bisexual makes you any less a part of the LGBT community. You are just as important as anyone else, believe me. Also, I hope for the day that you feel comfortable and safe to come out. Sending so much love you way
+Danielle Parent Thank you so much. ♡
Put your safety first. Don't do anything that's going to put you in danger. If you can find a someone who can give you housing in case of emergency please do it.
i've seen/heard people talk about how they're glad that 50 LGBTQ+ people were killed and it pisses me off so much. right now i can't decide whether i'm more sad or angry because homophobic people are making this situation even more awful than it already is
i wish you the best of luck with your parents. it's awful that some people have made it so that we have to say this, but remember to only come out to them when it is safe
Every act of hate against our community is like a knife in my heart.
I grew up in the goth, LGBTQ+, and kink communities of Orlando as well. I'm from just north of there in Lake County and going to Orlando felt so supportive and comforting and I got to see and be around "my people." I felt included and loved for who I was by the extreme kindness of the people of Orlando subcultures. I've never been to Pulse, but a friend of mine worked there for a few years and is also quite close with them. Others still attend events there. Hearing about the attack broke my heart. I am now in the Pacific NW and not being able to physically be there to help those affected has been hard for me. Please, everyone, if you can, send your monetary support to our brothers and sisters to help them through this time. If you're in Central Florida, please give blood and plasma to help those still hurting. Especially if you're Type O.
I'm an Australian and I was just as shocked and devastated when I saw it on the news, I hope they take this tragic event seriously and push for stricter gun laws in America.
I'm French and I'm also gay but now I don't feel safe anymore. I lost my faith in humanity and I'm ashamed of being a human. What happened is just awful.
Take care of yourself and be safe. love
i'm in a similar feeling and situation to you. i'm half closeted (out to majority of friends but not family) and i actually planned to publicly come out on social media 5 days from now. i had planned the event months (even a year) in advance and after the shooting, i just feel as fearful and trapped as i was a few years back. I no longer feel safe of just loving another individual and i did a week back. please stay safe and stay strong, humanity will slowly become better (:
+Game Name thanks you too
I was having the time of my life at Pride in Pgh (Kesha performed!) and to wake up Sunday morning to this was like whiplash. I can't put together the words to describe this pain. I love you Steph, stay strong
So heart breaking. Yet so strong. My love goes out to anyone who has lost a loved one, my love goes out to anyone who feels unsafe and my love goes out to anyone who is fighting for our cause!
I hope you know how many of us are loving you for make this video and say what tousands of people want to say.
Thank you Steph you are amazing :D
It's so heartbreaking. This violence needs to stop. Thank you for sharing this video.
Thank you so much for this video.. I am so scared and I was crying every day this week.. but your video made me strong. Thank you so much it means so much to me. Love you ❤
Thank you steph for speaking out, I was just in tears listening to you... A lot of youtubers don't know the power you guys have on viewers. We look up to you and the courage you have to get in front of a camera and speak your mind.
Been a minute since I have last seen you...really appreciate you posting this. We are here. We are strong and united.
Thank you so much steph, I really needed this video..
On Saturday night before I found out about the shooting, I had a huge fight with my parents. I came out 7 years ago and since then my dad failed to accept me fully and because of that I had always felt unloved and had this anger that never quite left me. So at dinner Saturday night, I cried and he told me he still couldn't accept me, and he wouldn't be coming to my wedding or acknowledge my relationships. And when I told him I'd be cutting him out of my life, because I just didn't wanna live with the anger of being unloved by your parent... He just said that I was being selfish, and that wanting him to change his mind and accept me, was the equivalent of him trying to change my sexuality..
Anyway, the second morning, I was on snapchat and I found out about the shooting, and I started to cry so hard. I was so angry. I needed this video.. I'm making it a point to be more out and proud now than ever, I've changed my Facebook to be the gayest social media account I have, and made statuses telling everyone who's in any way homophobic to unfriend me.. I love you steph, stay strong.
As the photographer at Pulse and Diva Invasion for years, I'm just numb... I have photos of most of those killed, having a great time, at such a great place. Thank you for this video, I love you!!
Steph, thank you so much. You give me hope with every one of your videos. This video needs to be seen by more people. I only hope I can do something about this tragedy
This was a really beautiful video. Thank you for sharing.
Everything you said. Yes. ❤️
This was beautiful. Im so sorry for your loss. this helped and affected me and i know it will to many others. Not only does the community in Orlando need to stay strong, but all the communities over the U.s. We should and we have somewhat come together and show our support, love and strength and fight for what is right. Much love.
I've watched a few UA-cam creators video responses but this one gave me chills. I'm so sorry for your loss personally and I'm so sorry for the loss our community has suffered by losing these beautiful people. #loveisnotafraid
This video absolutely broke my heart! Steph, my heart is with you and any of the ones that have fallen. My city is showing their love and everyone in my local community came together and did a minutes silences for those hurt and fallen.
I am honestly terrified to come out I don't know when I will.
Never stop being proud and open. So many people gain strength from you, Steph! Sending you love! ❤
Thank you for your message. We are overwhelmed with love here in Orlando. Very sorry for your loss.
Very inspiring Steph. Thanks for specking out.❤️ Lots of love from New York.😘
I know that you are so very close with Orlando, so I have really been waiting since Saturday to see what you would post about this. I've got to say that watching your videos really do make me feel better and that we are all here for you, we are all here for eachother! We love you steph!
I'm gay and I'm proud. You can hate or kill me but you will never stop me for being who I am.
I don't live in Florida, but I'm terrified to hold my girlfriends hand in public now. I don't have shame in my girlfriend my of course, but I'm scared one of us will get hurt. It's so sad that so many people are terrified to be themselves. This world will tell us to go out and do what makes us happy, but when any one of the LGBTQ+ community goes out doing what makes them happy, there own lives are at risk. I hate this world of hatred we live in but I won't back down in trying to spread positivity and love.
Stay strong ♥
This is the most beautiful and inspiring video I've ever seen in my life and I'm so sorry that you have even more personal ties to this than a lot of people and that this even happened at all. I love you and your strength and how you give other people strength. Your tears aren't a sign of your weakness because I see your strength radiating throughout this entire video. I am so thankful for you and others like you who only want to spread love and positivity. Thank you, Steph, for being one of the strongest ones and keeping us strong
Im not out yet, but i remember begging my mom earlier in the year to let me go to the Pride Fest near me, and not being able to "because people get shot at those." This is a beautiful and insightful video, and my heart goes out to everyone in this community. Thank you, Steph.
Love from Orlando!! Thank you!!! Xxx ❤️💛💚💙💜
One of the most beautiful cities in the U.S.!
I'm not one to normally comment on UA-cam, but I needed to thank you for making this video. Unlike you, I've never been to Florida, never crossed paths with anyone who was in that club, but when I woke up on Sunday morning and learned what had happened I was so effected. I felt anger, and Fear, and helplessness. I live thousands of miles away, in rural Oregon. My Parents, My friends and Family, they don't understand why I feel the way I do. When I was talking about what happened earlier today my sister brushed it off and said to me, a proud out lesbian, "it wasn't that big a deal, people are only talking about it cause it was a bunch of gays." I know she didn't say it to be mean, but suddenly I felt 15 again. I felt like I was alone and no one around me could understand. You posting this video reminded me their are people out there who do understand exactly how I feel, so thank you!
I decided to come out to my parents especially because of what is happening in Orlando and also the tragedy which could happen in LA. I also told them that I won't be quiet and now I'll tell everyone that what happened it's, like you said the act of hate against us. 😠 I'm 17 years old woman from Poland and I watched your video, I couldn't look at you and see your tears. I know that a lot of people are writing here, but I still have hope that you'll read this. ❤
You are so true Steph. In this terrible time we must all be united to support our community. I'm so sorry that you are going through this on such a personal level and send you and whoever has lost anyone in the shooting my condolences.
I'll give you a thousand likes, this was really touching. Thanks Steph
Thank you so much for this , it really helped me. You're such an inspiration to me for posting this, I cannot thank you enough. I hope I will one day be as strong as you.
I love you all so much, even though I have never met any of you. Our community transcends borders, religions, race, class everything. That's how strong it is. We are unified and have to only fight back by becoming more loving and accepting after this. peace x
Omg thank you for making this video and opening up and for your thought and stories. Hope the best for the Orlando
THANKS ! Je suis française, mais je me sens tout autant concerné. Je ne comprends pas ce monde. Et tu dis très bien ce que je pense. Tuer pour de l'amour? WTF bordel ! Merci à toi pour ce message. Et oui, j'écris en Français, pour vous montrer aussi qu'on est là. Courage à tout le monde
contente de voir que je suis pas la seule fan francophone de steph mdr (je sais qu'il doit y en avoir plus hein)
mais même en belgique j'ai pleuré des heures et des heures parce que le monde part en couilles, je voulais faire mon coming out à mes parents cette semaine mais j'ai emcore plus peur maintenantparce que je suis pas sûre que mon père acceptera. quoi qu'il en soit, il faut qu'on reste fort. to the lgbtq+ people, be loud and proud to be who you really are
Alaska Venhya mdr, il doit y en avoir un paquet oui ;-) en rajoutant toute la clique tel que : briandchrissy, ally hills, arielle, ali spagnola etc..sans oublier les québécoises ;-) (Non non non, je ne regarde absolument pas l'univers lgbt sur youtube ahahah).
Plus sérieusement, oui il faut être fort, il faut être soi-même, s'accepter tel que l'on est (à tout les niveaux). Il n'y a que comme ça que "les autres" prennent conscience qu'on est là, et qu'on est tous différents. ce n'est pas en se cachant que les mentalités changent.
Je ne connais pas ton âge, ton histoire, donc je ne parle pas pour toi spécialement (car selon le contexte...) Mais n'ai pas peur. Si tu le sens tu le fais, sinon non. Je dirais juste que tant que tu es honnête avec toi-même, que tu t'apportes ton bonheur...
pour ton père : les gens sont étonnants, on ne peut jamais savoir. Mais il ne faut pas servir de ce contexte pour que les gens aient des réactions disproportionnées. Au contraire, ce contexte devrait (selon moi) ouvrir encore plus l'esprit des gens. Montrer que ce n'est que de l'amour, qu'il n'y à rien de mal. Que tuer un être humain pour son amour c'est quoi??? c'est justifié? NON, alors ACCEPTER les gens tels qu'ils sont.
+vivre ses rêves merci, ça me donne beaucoup de confiance en moi haha
bah disons qu'à l'école presque tous mes potes le savent, après les autres m'ont rien demandé mais ranafout mdr et sur internet je suis complètment out
au début, je comptais faire mon coming out soit quand j'aurais une copine, soit quand j'aurai 18 ans (dans 2 ans quoi) afin que si on ne m'acceptait pas à la maison, j'aurais ou avoir mon prope chez moi
d'un côté cette attaque me donne très envie de montrer tout ma gayitude (wtf? mdr) à ma famille directe parce que je me dis qu'il faut que je vive ma vie à fond ces jours-ci parce que je ne sais pas si y'aura un lendemain toussa toussa
Alaska Venhya effectivement, à ton âge, chez tes parents, ce n'est pas toujours évident. C'est fou qu'encore aujourd'hui des "jeunes" de ton âge se posent encore ce genre de questions par rapport aux familles. Je dis que c'est dingue, car quelque part cela montre bien que c'est encore difficile, que ce n'est pas simple. Sinon il n'y aurait pas toutes ces questions. je pensais sincèrement qu'aujourd'hui "ça passait" mieux, mais plus je me ballade sur youtube, plus je vois que non.
J'espère pour toi que ça se passera bien, que tu le dises ou non. Faut suivre ton instinct, ta petite voix intérieure. Je l'ai dit tôt à ma "très proche famille" mais longtemps je suis restée cachée même en l'ayant dit...Ben quelque part je me suis exclue moi-même de ma propre vie. Et ça, tu le réalise tard (oui bon, j'ai à peine presque le double de ton âge mdr)
Je comprends ton envie de montrer ta gaytitude (ben oui, top ce mot :-) Et après-tout, construit ton bonheur, c'est toi qui en détient la première étincelle
+vivre ses rêves c'est quand même pas très commun les lgbtq+, en france il n'y en a qu'environ 1 million et certaines personnes qui vivent toujours dans le moyen-âge n'acceptent en aucun cas tout type d'homosexualité ou autre et sont énormément sexistes
je suis encore jeune, et je veux faire du monde un endroit où tout le monde peut être qui il est, et ça sans que ça ne pose de problème à personne, je veux vivre dans un monde où hommes et femmes et autres sont égaux, où le gouvernement pense ouvertement en pensant à tous types de gens
je sais que je n'ai pas vécu dans la pire époque, mais je veux que le monde soit encore mieux quand j'aurai des enfants et que leurs camarades soient élevés par des parents ouverts d'esprit, je veux que tout le monde soit comme ça
le problème c'est que le racisme, sexisme, meninisme et l'homophobie (et j'en passe) existe et que ça sera comme ça pendant encore très longtemps
j'ai envie d'essayer de faire mon coming out ce mois, notre mois
merci beaucou
Thanks for making this video, this is a time to rise up not back down!
oh... my ... gosh...
thank you so much Steph, this really touched me, and I know your not the only one feeling that way. I too have been feeling so much hurt when the news came up. I agree with your terms. We should all be more out and proud than ever. . .
Again, thank you so much
And you can't give blood in the US if you're English or if you lived in England for more than two years... Safety is one thing. This is something else. Hugs to you and your girlfriend. Be proud and strong.
Sending love and strength to you, Steph. I cannot imagine the pain you feel because of how close Orlando and Pulse are to your heart. On Saturday morning, I finally began to feel the most affirmed, happy, and loved I ever have in my identity; now I am more scared, angry, and sad in it than I have ever been. Stay strong everyone.
Steph, you have inspired me so incredibly much. I want to personally just thank you. Thank you so much. Through my journey coming out, I have always felt accepted through the community of amazing people online. I found so many amazing people, including you. You are an amazing activist, I am proud to say that I am proud to be who I am, and I am proud to love who I love. I will not let fear silence me. I love you, so incredibly much.
Thank you for sharing 😔 prayers go out to you the lives lost, and families of the victims.
Steph, I'm in tears this is the most beautiful, raw and heartfelt video I have ever had the pleasure to watch. Stay strong. Our pride will never be silenced❤️💛💚💙💜
Thank you for being strong, sharing your story, and opening up a dialogue here.
I love you so much Steph you are such a strong beautiful person and your videos give me so much strength, you helped me to accept myself, to come out, and now you're continuing to help and give support with this video, the Orlando shootings are something that's really hit our community hard but i'm constantly overwhelmed with your love, compassion and will to help others, I've watched your videos for so long and have watched you evolve and i'm so proud and happy to have found them, you deserve all the love in the world, continue to be a wonderful human
We've all donated so much blood they're actually turning people away. I live near here so it hit us hard...
I've been sad and terrified and sick to my stomach since Sunday but your video has made me feel empowered. I am gay and i am HERE and I'm proud of who I am!!
We love you Steph, thank you for this video. 😭👏🏼
❤️ What an amazing wonderful video!! So much love, such a strong words... I can't believe what happened in Orlando... And I'm sorry for everyone affected by this crime. I feel sorry for all the lgbt+ people. But I'm proud of you speaking these words! Together we unite and together we will spread love and give the world the colors she needs. Keep strong! Xxx
Sending you so much love from Tallahassee, my aunts both went to UCF and still live in Oveido. I feel your pain as a fellow LGBT Floridian, the outpouring of love and support here in North Florida has been incredible, even the mayor of Tallahassee came to the candlelight vigil that took place last night in the capitol and gave an amazing speech. We are all #OrlandoStrong.
I feel like I don't understand the hate against us, the lgbtq. Victims couldn't defend their selves. How can someone determine that a person gets to live or not. It's not there decision to make. I'm so sorry for what happened. And I all the families love and support but also our community. We are stronger than this. We will fight our way back. The world needs to be safe. Fight the wrong people. Not the innocent ones!
I live in the Netherlands and we don't have a community here that helps people for who they are. And I wish I could make a difference but I don't know how? I really want to make a change for our community.
Their * and I wish*
I TOTALLY AGREE WITH WHAT DO WE DO TO PEOPLE SOO MUCH THT THEY HATE US!!!!
+andrew carson We have gone against what they see as right.
katelyn s Yeahh soo true THERE IS NOTHING WRONG BEING GAY WE DID NOT CHOOSE TO BE GAY I KNOW I DIDNT I WAS BORN GAY!!!
Thank you for sharing this, hun. Speaking up and talking about it is important... hate only breeds more hate, and the world doesn't need any more of that...
Steph - I'm so thankful you use your voice and you do it so naturally and honestly. I'm over here in the UK and the sadness is all around the world in response to this - I'm proud to be me (after many years).
- I accept myself
- I refuse to be afraid
- I send love to everyone
London Pride this year we will stand strong
I've been following you and your videos for 2 years or longer I think and tbh the moment I heard what happened in Orlando I had to think of you and what impact it'd have on you. First of all, I'm sorry for your loss even if you didn't knew them that well but you knew them nonetheless which means it's hurtful for you. But I also wanted to thank you for uploading this video. It kind of have me hope. Our pride parade is in 4 weeks and even though I have problems with masses of people I'll attend it and walk for all the lives lost, hurt and impacted. Thank you Steph💚
I'm already out . It's only been a few months .. But haven't told my dad yet cause he lives far away and the only way was to email him at the moment. This whole tragedy really made me realize that you never know what can happen. So I told him. Be proud of who you are. I'm scared , we are all scared. But we need to keep on pushing foward ..
I'm so sorry Steph. We must stand together in this time of atrocity. Praying for everyone and anyone who has lost someone dear to their heart in the past couple days. You'll never be forgotten ❤️
Thanks steph I really need this!
I live in South Florida but I can tell you that when people heard, everyone ran to the blood banks. I was one of them. People brought food and water and we all talked and spent the whole day there. As more nurses came, we applauded them. Every time a donor left, we applauded. It was bittersweet because something terrible happened, but it was beautiful to see people come together and do whatever they could to help.
You are such an inspiration, thank you for talking about it, and I'm so sorry to see you so much hurt, I love you, stay strong ♡
I currently live in Orlando. Moved here about a year ago. My mom woke me up to tell me the news. I had wanted to get involved in the LGBT community here so badly. I wanted to take my mom to drag shows (she wanted to be introduced to the culture). I wanted to meet other people and get involved. That was delayed because of work and lack of transportation. And now it's even more delayed out of fear for my own safety. I feel uncomfortable even wearing anything with a rainbow on it around here.
And worst of all, my family, my straight friends and colleagues ... they will never fully understand how much this has impacted me personally and those around them who are in the LGBT+ community.
Yesterday a person came in to my work wearing a superman shirt, only the S was in the style of the pride flag. I nearly started crying right there. We need each other. We need to be kind to each other. We need to stick together.
I am unable to donate blood again, due to my work schedule and lack of proper transportation, but I am donating what I can.
stay strong! love from the Tasmanian state of Australia's lgbtqi community!!!!!
I came out yesterday and I am going to the mall today I'm gonna be so scared that something might happen. This is no quality of life to live.
This video is the most honest, wholesome and true piece of media I've watched related to the hate crime in Orlando. I agree 100% with everything you had to say. Love and acceptance is and will always a billion times stronger than hate.
I love you and I loved this video. I could hear all the emotion in your voice and it was so powerful.
My friend and I went to the Vigil last night in Brisbane Australia for Orlando. Was very moving and emotional.
And this video was very powerful, sends a great message and also made me tear up a bit. I can't even begin to imagine what you and other LGBTQ+ people living in the U.S are feeling right now. Stay safe, love you very much ❤️💛💚💙💜
Stay strong steph we are all behind you in this and send love to u 💙💜
Now I just want to hug you and all the families who have lost someone there :( It's so scary for closeted people to hear that they are not safe even in places like that, I love you brothers and sisters.
Preach,sister,preach❤️
Love from Greece ❤️
I love you so much Steph. Your words are so touching. Stay strong over there, and be proud❤️💛💚💙💜
My heart hurt when Steph is crying!!! I love you soo much ❤️❤️
Steph you are amazing. When I heard what happened in Orlando I was so heartbroken cause even if I have never been there I truly feel like this act of hate is against all of us, especially against the LGBTQ+ community, around the entire world. You're so right about us needing to be stronger than ever. We can't let hate win! If everyone's out and pride I believe that sometime all people will understand that's all just about love. Sending you lots of love from Germany❤️💛💚💙💜 we're ONE community! #lovealwayswins
this video brought me to tears. I don't get how someone could be so horrible and have that much hate.. hopefully our community will continue to be strong even after this major tragedy.
I love you so much!
thanks for making this video 💜
I heard the guy who did this was actually gay and had a Grindr profile. Why am I not surprised
I honestly cried with this video... No one could have ever expressed better in this matter. No one could have ever expressed my thoughts this well. I love you Steph. We will stand and keep fighting. Harder than before.
I don't live in Florida, I don't even live in the US, but this has affected me so much that I've been crying on-and-off ever since I woke up one afternoon and saw it on the news. I don't know what help I could provide since I can't donate blood and I'm kinda broke, but my heart goes out to everyone, to the victims, to the viewers, to my fellow members of the LGBTQ+ community. I am sending my love and and my support from across the globe. I love you guys. Love overpowers hate.
im in australia, its absolutely sickening
i think being a lgbt person it hits hard to home and is such a sickening thing , here for all the community in orlando xx
I was suppose to go Florida at around the end of them month with some family. I do not know how I feel about going anymore. I cannot explain to my family.
My heart goes out to anyone affected by this shooting and mainly to the family and friends of the deceased and injured. As an gay teenager this is hard to hear and chilling. But I know that we as a community as a world can come back together and be stronger than ever before.
oh damn i've never been this early to a video. STEPH WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH. we can't stop fighting, we won't give up. they can never take away our pride ❤💛💚💙💜
My favourite video of yours, thank you for recording it and standing strong for our community. I wish your country would ban automatic and semi automatic weapons like mine did in 1996.
This whole week I been scared af. I go to work and just come home and just zone out.
I wish I could have met you at the vigil yesterday and given you a hug. I was a little bit further ahead of you and further left.
i live in a small village and i am already terrified off coming out because i am scared of the way people will react and treat me, and this attack has made me even more scared of how i might be treated if i was to come out. I cant believe that someone would carry out such a hateful attack especially on a community that already suffers form hate and discrimination on a daily basis, my heart goes out to everyone in America
I've been crying for 3 days about it. And it's made me very scared to do anything anymore. But I agree that this is where we fight harder for our freedom.
As someone relatively new to the LGBTQIA+ community, this is absolutely terrifying to me. I live up in Canada, and the scariest thing for me is that this could very well happen here, too. Yes, it does happen in the US way too often- which is heartbreaking- but it could just as easily happen anywhere, anytime, on a small scale, or larger scale. My heart goes out to all affected by this devastating event in Orlando, you have Canada's support! 🍁💝🍁
You are amazing for creating this video #prayfororlando ❤️💛💚💙💜
My heart broke in thousand pieces when that massacre happened but you are so right! our community must be out and proud and stronger than ever before!!! love will win, not hate!!!
THEY CAN'T STOP US.