As Orlando marks 10 years since the Pulse nightclub tragedy, we honor the lives lost, the resilience of those affected, and the community that continues to move forward together. Through A Decade of Unity: Pride in Our City, Orlando Pride are spotlighting local leaders, advocates, artists, business owners and changemakers whose work helps make Orlando a more welcoming, inclusive place for all.
Throughout this series, we'll share the stories and perspectives of six members of Orlando's LGBTQ+ community and allies, reflecting on what unity means to them, how our city came together in the aftermath of Pulse and how we can continue building a stronger future together. Their experiences serve as a reminder that the spirit of Orlando is defined not only by remembrance, but by compassion, connection and action.
Ashley Taylor, UCF Design Professor
What does Unity mean to you?
Unity starts with making room for one another and wanting people to feel welcomed and included. It’s recognizing that different experiences, identities, and perspectives are what make a community stronger, more creative, and more connected. To me, unity is built through empathy, openness, and everyday actions. It doesn’t always have to happen through defining moments — a lot of the time, it’s found in the small ways people support, welcome, and care for each other.
Do you have a personal example of how our community came together 10 years ago in response to the Pulse tragedy?
I’ll always remember the weeks in June of 2016 and seeing every part of Orlando show up for everyone affected by Pulse. There was a real sense that people wanted to help however they could, whether that meant donating, organizing events, volunteering, creating art, or simply being present for one another.
I remember feeling like I had to make something and get my hands moving to process, so I designed a poster for AIGA Orlando’s Love by Design initiative to help raise money and support the community. As a designer, it reminded me that creativity can be a way to process grief, support people, and bring communities together.
What stood out most to me was how immediate and genuine the support felt. Local businesses, artists, community organizations, and neighbors all found their own ways to contribute and care for one another. It reminded me how deeply connected creativity and community are in Orlando.
How can Orlando continue to support this community?
I think Orlando can continue supporting these communities by providing spaces, resources, and visibility to the people already doing the often invisible work of building community, organizing events, supporting others, and creating opportunities for connection. A lot of what makes Orlando special comes from people actively contributing to the culture of the city through creativity, collaboration, and care for one another. Continuing to uplift those voices and invest in those spaces is what keeps the community connected and welcoming.
