People all around the world were shocked by the horrors of June 12, when a 29-year-old American man killed 49 people and wounded at least 53 at a gay nightclub in the U.S. city of Orlando.

This is the deadliest mass shooting in the history of the United States, and, as President Barack Obama said, “It is especially heart-breaking for our friends who are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender."

Solidarity with the LGBTI community

On June 15, a gathering was organized by CILD in front of the American Embassy. As declared by Patrizio Gonnella, CILD's president, the aim was to "send a strong sign of solidarity to the LGBTI community as well as a warning that the fight against homophobia, and for everyone's human rights, won't stop."

Many representatives of different human rights organizations and citizens came to present their sympathy for the LGBTI community and their distress over the the terrible tragedy in Orlando.

One flower for each of the 49 victims was placed in front of the gates of the U.S. Embassy to remember and honor their lives. The U.S. Embassy also hung a rainbow flag right under the American national flag.

The American ambassador to Italy, John R. Phillips, could not participate to the event, but he issued an online statement and encouraged everyone to sign the condolence book for the victims of Orlando shooting.

Paul Berg, the minister counselor for political affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Rome, welcomed the #Rome4Orlando delegation. He made a point of shaking hands with and thanking every person who came.

Homophobia continues across world

All across the world, homophobia continues to be a major barrier to achieving full equality. It generates irrational hatred, intolerance and violence, as people belonging to the LGBTI community are indeed still stigmatized and discriminated against on a daily basis.

It is really important to realize that people do have the same rights, even if we are not all the same: we are a diverse community that has to find a way to live together peacefully and respectfully.

Campaigns and trainings are needed to challenge homophobia, to make people understand that there is nothing wrong with LGBTI people. Reforms in education policy are necessary; educating young people about LGBT issues is fundamental to overcoming the widely accepted prejudice.

Many civil society organizations are committed to helping the LGBTI community feel less socially excluded and isolated, but the biggest step to fight homophobia should be taken through legislative action by national governments.