Like many people, I was shocked, sickened, and saddened to learn of the shooting that happened on Sunday near downtown Orlando. We have since learned that this was the worst mass shooting in US history and that it was an act of hatred, targeting a gay night club.
As you may or may not know, I live and work in central Florida. The shooting occurred not too far from my place of work. This was like a punch in the gut. My heart aches for everyone affected by this tragedy. Unfortunately these acts of violence have become all too common, but it does not diminish the fact that 49 people lost their lives and over fifty others were injured in a senseless act of hatred. I claim no special insight or closeness to what happened, other than physical proximity, and this has nothing to do with the book, but I also can’t just continue without addressing what happened.
I’m amazed to see the reaction of this community (and the whole world) – tons of people volunteering, giving blood, showing solidarity, and wanting to help in any way they can.
There have been tons of responses and ways to help. Here are some of them: GoFundMe, Planting Peace, OneBlood.
Dear Readers & Friends,
Often we use books and films and other forms of art to leave our reality, but strong art is reflective of our human condition. It helps us connect and understand one another. I believe my book does that very thing. It’s the reason I write.
In light of the massacre in Orlando on Saturday night I can not in good conscience ask anyone to pre-order a book of escapism without enabling it to effect the reality in which we look to escape. As you all know scores of lives were taken and hundreds of families devastated forever.
So, in an effort to do our part, all author proceeds from the Pre-Ordering or "I Am Waltz" will be given to the family’s of the victims of the Pulse Nightclub Tragedy. If you feel the desire to pre-order the book I thank you, and rest assured your purchase will do its part to go beyond your personal quest for escape and enjoyment and we will do what we can to ease the pain caused to these families in whatever small way we can.
If you have any questions please let me know.
In love and thankfulness,
Matthew Dho
Hi, my faithful and wonderful Readers,
It’s been a little over a day since the massacre in Orlando and I still can’t stop crying. I’m devastated and furious. I didn’t know anyone in the Orlando LGBT scene personally, but make no mistake, they were all my brothers, sisters, siblings.
Here’s what you can do today to help.
I will need some time, today, tomorrow - I don’t know how long it will take for the shock to settle. This is why I write. This is why our voices need to be heard, why we need to be seen as more than just "those gay people". Because a man so disgusted by two men kissing will walk into our sanctuaries and gun us down.
If anyone needs to talk, I’ll be working today, pretending everything is fine, because I’m not out at work - but I’ll check back when I can and should be available for anyone who needs it.
