ORLANDO, FL – Plans for a $45 million permanent memorial and museum honoring the victims of the 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting are facing opposition from some survivors and families of those killed, who express concerns the design does not adequately reflect the tragedy’s impact and the LGBTQ+ community it targeted. The onePULSE Foundation unveiled conceptual designs in early January 2020, sparking a debate over representation and memorialization.
The proposed memorial, designed by Coldefy & Associés with RDAI, aims to transform the site of the former nightclub into a space for remembrance and education. While the project has garnered support from many, a vocal group of those directly affected by the shooting argue the current plans prioritize aesthetics over honoring the 49 lives lost and the broader LGBTQ+ community. The onePULSE Foundation anticipates groundbreaking in 2021, with completion of the memorial in 2022 and the museum in 2023, and currently estimates 300 daily visitors to the interim memorial.
The controversy centers on the memorial’s design, wich features a flowing, open structure and a museum partially submerged in a reflecting pool. Critics argue the design lacks specific references to the nightclub itself and doesn’t fully capture the terror and grief experienced during the shooting.Some have voiced concerns that the memorial feels too abstract and detached from the lived experiences of those impacted.
“We want something that really speaks to what happened here, not just a pretty design,” said one family member who requested anonymity. “This was a hate crime against our community, and that needs to be reflected in the memorial.”
Barbara Poma, CEO of the onePULSE Foundation, acknowledges the concerns and emphasizes the foundation’s commitment to inclusivity. “We’ve been listening to the community, and we’re working to address their feedback,” Poma said. “Our goal is to create a space that honors the victims,supports the survivors,and educates future generations.”
The foundation has held several community meetings to gather input and is considering modifications to the design. The project is funded through private donations and is intended to serve as a lasting tribute to the victims and a symbol of resilience. Organizers hope the memorial will inspire change by demonstrating the power of love over hate.