In August 2014, rainbows bloomed from Lakewood to Akron when the Gay Games came to town. The region asserted itself as welcome and inclusive; and Northeast Ohio's friendship with the Federation of Gay Games and all the people it represents was public and proud.

Hence as the country mourns the Orlando victims, Fresh Water respectfully offers the Federation's formal statement.

As the world mourns the tragic events that took place at Pulse Nightclub in Orlando this past Sunday, 12 June 2016, the Federation of Gay Games family extends its condolences and support to the victims, their families, friends and associates, and the citizens of Orlando, Florida.

This act of violence directly impacts the global Gay Games family. Four years ago, the City of Orlando was a bid candidate to host Gay Games 10 in 2018. Pulse Nightclub was a local supporter of that effort. In addition, athletes and artists from Orlando have participated at each quadrennial Gay Games since 1982.

Whenever the LGBT community and our allies come under attack, as it was in Orlando and the recent murder of activists in Bangladesh and Honduras, we strengthen our resolve to fight on in honor of those lost. The events of June 12 are a reminder to all of us how precious life is, and why we must continue to work together to promote acceptance and inclusion to defeat homophobia, sexism, racism, and other forms of discrimination worldwide.

The Federation of Gay Games will continue to lead this effort through the use of sport and culture to promote our founding principles of Participation, Inclusion, Personal Best™, and encourage our sisters, brothers and allies to join us for Paris 2018 Gay Games 10 with our message of “All Equal”. Together, we are stronger.

On behalf of the FGG Board of Directors, our Assembly, and Honorary Life Members, we remain yours in sport and solidarity,

Joanie Evans and Kurt Dahl
Co-Presidents