LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) – “Lafayette strong loves Orlando strong”, a phrase that highlights Acadiana as the community came together as one to show support for the victims of the Orlando shooting. It was a sea of yellow Tuesday night as hundreds packed into Parc Sans Souci to show their support for a community in need. Acadiana Pride memeber Ted Richard said the candelight vigil started as a small idea but the reaction from the community made the vigil a huge event.

“When this tragedy hapened we knew we had to reach out. And to be honest I was not surprised at all at the out poor of support that we got because that’s what we do. We are Lafayette, we are Acadiana that’s what we do.”

Volunteers painted the Lafayette letters rainbow colors where residents left behind messages of hope. Guests were also encouraged to wear yellow. Volunteer Eddie Richard said the color yellow was picked for the event because it is a sign of hope.

“It’s light in darkness. It’s a stand out color. We are here, we are not going anywhere, we are going to stand strong together and lafayette has proven that time and time again.”

Many were in tears as each victim’s name was said and a candle was lit in their memory.