US Consulate in Istanbul hangs LGBT flag to commemorate Orlando victims
ISTANBUL
AP photo
An LGBT flag was hanged at the U.S. Consulate General in the İstinye district of Istanbul to commemorate the victims of the recent Orlando attack, which left 49 people dead and scores wounded.Omar Mateen attacked the Pulse gay club early on June 12 and was shot dead by police after a three-hour standoff. He called during his shooting spree to profess allegiance to various militant Islamist groups.
U.S. Consul General in Istanbul Charles F. Hunter also released a statement on the Orlando attack, saying they are in deep shock and sorrow.
“The U.S. Consulate General in Istanbul is shocked and saddened by the tragic and senseless act of violence in Orlando, Florida,” read the statement shared from the consulate general’s official Twitter account.
It added that the LGBT flag was hanged to show solidarity with all people who defend the values of equality and dignity.
“As we commemorate Pride Month this June, we have raised the Rainbow Flag in memory of the victims of this tragedy and in solidarity with the LGBTI community and all those who defend the fundamental values of equality and dignity around the world,” the statement added.