LGBTQ Advocates In Morris Co. Hope For Change After Colorado Shooting

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ — A local advocacy and social services group in Morris County is devastated after a shooter killed five people and injured dozens at a gay nightclub in Colorado this past weekend.

For years, EDGE NJ, a nonprofit organization based in Denville, has been a fixture in the Morris County LGBTQ+ movement. The organization was founded in the early 1990s with the goal of assisting those affected by the AIDS crisis.

Originally known as "The AIDS Residence Coalition of Morris County," the organization officially incorporated as a private nonprofit in 1992.

"It saddens us to hear of the attack on November 19th that took place at Club Q an LGBTQ+ establishment located in Colorado. Spaces like Club Q, offer an opportunity for people from all different spectrums of the LGBTQ+ community to be affirmed and accepted," said Nicholas Lepper, the Community Engagement Coordinator at EDGE NJ.

Last weekend, a 22-year-old gunman opened fire inside a gay nightclub in Colorado Springs, killing five people and injuring 25, before being subdued by "heroic" patrons and arrested by police who arrived within minutes, according to authorities.

Read More: Shooter Kills 5 At Gay Club In Colorado, Subdued By Patrons: Police

"Hate crime acts such as the one that took place at Club Q discourage many from safely being their true and authentic selves. Our hearts are with those affected that night and during this time of significant loss," Lepper said.

The Colorado Springs Police Department confirmed the names of the five victims on Monday afternoon: Kelly Loving, Daniel Aston, Derrick Rump, Ashley Paugh and Raymond Green Vance.

According to Lepper, EDGE NJ will keep working to eliminate injustices and discrimination experienced by the LGBTQ+ community through a variety of supportive programming, social gatherings and educational workshops.