Jeni Carter, Student Life assistant
director, reads from a document written by the Muslim community expressing
their abhorrence to the shooting at the Orlando LGBTQ Club and their desire to
right the misunderstandings of their religion.
Although the hideous act that took 49 lives happened far from the remote high mountain valley, those in the San Luis Valley community, and at Adams State University, reach out to one another in hopes of healing.
As more than 50 formed a circle amidst rainbow flags and ribbons; prayers and observances were spoken in three languages to mourn the loss of lives in Orlando, Florida, and to begin mending the hurt and sorrow felt everywhere.
Shirley Atencio, campus minister, begins the ceremony during the Circle of Hope and Healing on June 16, in front of Richardson Hall.
The Adams State Campus Ministry Office organized the peaceful event, inviting members and leaders from different backgrounds and beliefs to share and connect with their neighbors, demonstrating that acceptance and inclusion is more a more common and solid foundation than one of distrust, violence, and hate.
A skein on rainbow-colored yarn is passed along
to everyone in the Circle of Hope and Healing.
The community is also invited to participate in the SLV Standing Strong with Orlando – A Walk to Reflect and Connect starting at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, June 19. The walk will begin in front of the Alamosa Public Library and ends at the SLV Brew Pub.
A light breeze lifts up Standing Strong testimonies.
For more information call United Campus Ministry at 719-587-7516.
