A decade after the Pulse nightclub massacre shook Orlando, the city’s soccer franchise is turning remembrance into a permanent statement of solidarity.
In Section 12 of Inter&Co Stadium, 49 rainbow‑colored seats have been installed, each positioned to echo the date of the tragedy — June 12, 2016 — while also serving as a visual reminder of the lives lost.
The club has also unveiled a new Unity Kit, a collaboration with Nike and the National Women’s Soccer League, that weaves symbols of peace and togetherness into its design, reinforcing the message that soccer belongs to everyone regardless of gender, faith, background or sexual identity.
A kit that speaks of togetherness
Fans responded in kind, forming a rainbow pattern across the stands and observing a minute of silence during the 49th minute of play, a moment that marked the first time MLS paused competition for a collective tribute.
Kaya Hyde, Orlando City’s vice president of community impact and diversity, equity and inclusion, said the seats and kit are more than symbols; they are a lasting promise to the LGBTQ+ community and survivors that their stories will not be forgotten.
A portion of the jersey sales — $20,000 — will be directed to The Center Orlando’s United Resiliency Services Program, which provides ongoing mental‑health support to those still healing from the attack.
Looking ahead, the club plans to distribute the special jerseys to survivors and families as the anniversary approaches, ensuring that the tribute remains intimately connected to those most affected.