Jerald Arthur Wright, 31, was killed on June 12, 2016, in the mass shooting at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida. He had been celebrating the birthday of his friend Cory James Connell, who also died in the attack. Wright worked in hospitality at Disney and had recently been promoted; his mother, María Jose Wright, described him as a sweet, loving spirit who struggled with severe dyslexia and a childhood speech impediment.

The shooter, Omar Mateen, was killed by police at the scene. The attack claimed 49 victims and was later classified as both a hate crime and an act of terrorism; investigations reported Mateen had pledged allegiance to ISIS and had scouted other locations before choosing Pulse, a popular LGBTQ+ venue. Families of victims, including Wright’s, have been active in advocacy and legal actions after the shooting.

If anyone knew Jerald, his circle, or has memories to share about him, please contribute what you can to help preserve his memory.