Orlando Magic used their opening game to honor the Pulse Nightclub victims

Still in our hearts.
 By 
Sophie Hirsh
 on 
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Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

After experiencing the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history in June, the Orlando community is still finding ways to honor the 49 people who died in the attack.

At the Orlando Magic's first home game of the regular season on Wednesday night, the team paid tribute to them -- as well as caregivers, first responders and others affected by the violence -- with a beautiful ceremony.

The team announced their plans on Twitter earlier this month.


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At last night's opening ceremony, the Amway Center was illuminated with rainbow lights. A slideshow of photos played on the Jumbotron while Brandon Parsons performed his song "Forty-Nine Times," written by him to honor the 49 lives that were lost in the tragic shootings.

Fans shared other images of the event online.

The team warmed up in shirts that read "Orlando United."

Orlando police officer Gladys Justiniano sang the national anthem in honor of the victims and the first responders.

And the team also honored caregivers of those injured in the attacks.

The Orlando Magic's ceremony last night is an important reminder that even after time passes following a national tragedy, not everyone has healed. Information on how to help those affected by the Orlando Pulse Nightclub shootings is available here.

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Sophie Hirsh

Sophie was a Viral Content Intern for the Watercooler channel. More writing and other stuff by Sophie can be found at www.sophiehirsh.com.

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