ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Members of central Florida's congressional delegation are introducing legislation that would designate as a national memorial the gay nightclub where 49 people were massacred three years ago by a supporter of the Islamic State.
U.S. Reps. Darren Soto and Stephanie Murphy said Monday at a ceremony outside the former nightclub that the designation will preserve and protect Pulse nightclub for future generations and give it the federal recognition it deserves.
Pulse owner Barbara Poma has established a nonprofit to open a memorial and museum at the site.
Monday's ceremony was interrupted briefly by the mother of Christopher "Drew" Leinonen, who was killed at the nightclub. Christine Leinonen began shouting at Poma when she came to the speaker's podium.
Afterward, Leinonen says she blames Poma for inadequate security at the nightclub.
Proud to join @repdarrensoto & @repvaldemings in introducing legislation that would designate #Pulse as a National Memorial Site. The love that the 49 victims brought into this world will always be stronger than the hate that stole their lives on that day. #OrlandoStrong pic.twitter.com/OzWzLdphet
— Rep. Stephanie Murphy (@RepStephMurphy) June 10, 2019
We are at @pulseorlando this morning for a very special tribute leading up to June 12
— Orange County Sheriff's Office (@OrangeCoSheriff) June 10, 2019
Our local members of Congress @RepDarrenSoto @RepStephMurphy and @RepValDemings have worked to make this hallowed ground a National Memorial. #WeWillNotLetHateWin pic.twitter.com/4XGuSmzp0K
Our efforts to designate #Pulse a National Memorial honors lives of 49 victims, survivors, and their loved ones. It’ll serve as a reminder of us coming together to heal and overcome hate. #PulseMemorial will be a symbol of hope, love, and light for our #OrlandoStrong community. pic.twitter.com/lnUrmOnKxG
— US Rep. Darren Soto (@RepDarrenSoto) June 10, 2019
