Our thoughts go out to all those affected in Orlando
Patrick Harvie, Equalities spokesperson for the Scottish Greens and MSP for Glasgow, today spoke in Parliament at his sorrow at the mass shooting in Orlando, Florida.
A gunman opened fire at a gay nightclub, killing 49 people and injuring dozens of others. It has been reported that he became "very angry" having previously seen two men kissing.
Patrick Harvie MSP said:
"It's hard to find the words to express the sorrow so many of us in Scotland are feeling just now, and our thoughts go out to all those affected in Orlando. Here in Scotland we must redouble our effort to build the inclusive Scotland, with no place for prejudice or discrimination, that the First Minister spoke of.
"Young people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or intersex deserve respect for their equal rights and dignity, and I'm pleased that in response to my question today the First Minister expressed continued support for the Time for Inclusive Education campaign. It’s unacceptable that young LGBTI+ people are subjected to the ideological prejudice that labels their sexuality or gender identity as a 'moral defect'. All schools in Scotland should actively promote fully inclusive education, and help end the prejudice that clouds too many young people's lives.
"As we express solidarity with the affected communities in the US, we must ensure all young people in Scotland can grow up loved and valued."