QMUNITY calls for the protection of 2SLGBTQIA+ community members following Colorado shooting

By Daniel Itai

Qmunity, a Vancouver based 2SLGBTQIA+ organization has called for the protection of 2SLGBTQIA+ persons following the tragic death of five 2SLGBTQIA+ club patrons on Saturday.

According to Police, 22-year-old, Anderson Lee Aldrich, entered Club Q in Colorado Springs, USA, armed with a handgun and an assault-style rifle and started firing randomly killing 5 and injuring 18 in the act before he was subdued by a club patron and several other party-goers.

Anderson who is now in Police custody has been charged with murder and hate crimes.

“We are devastated by the news of the hateful and senseless attack on our community at Club Q in Colorado, a day before the Trans Day of Remembrance.

This is a reminder of the work that remains to be done to truly ensure all members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ communities can lead full lives free from hate and violence.

To those in our communities here in BC, we want to remind you that you are valid, you are loved and you have space here at Qmunity,” read a statement from Qmunity.

The names of the 5 Club Q Colorado Springs victims are, Daniel Davis Ashton, Raymond Green, Kelly Loving, Ashley Paugh, and Derrick Rump.

Daniel Davis Aston, 28, was a bartender at Club Q. An outspoken Trans man, he continuously helped raise donations for Black Trans people on his Instagram.

Raymond Green, 22, was celebrating a friend’s birthday when the shots broke out. His friend Rich apprehended the shooter as he died.

Kelly Loving, 40, was new to the Colorado scene. A nurturing soul, she was like a Trans mother to her friends.

Ashley Paugh, 35, and her friends decided to go to Club Q after spending time shopping and getting dinner together. She was a family woman and lived for her daughter and Derrick Rump, 38, had no shortage of friends. He was a part owner and bartender at Club Q.