The Digital Memorials That Disappear Every June
As we mark another anniversary of the tragic events that took place in 2015, it’s worth reflecting on the digital memorials that have been erected in their memory. These online tributes were meant to be permanent, a way for people to pay their respects and honor those who were lost.
However, as June rolls around once again, we’re reminded that these digital memorials are not immune to the passage of time. In fact, many of them disappear altogether.
A Fleeting Existence
According to Time Magazine, “online tributes and memorials can be ephemeral, disappearing from the web as platforms change or shut down.” This is precisely what happened with the digital memorial for the victims of the Orlando Pulse nightclub shooting. After just a few years, the website disappeared into the ether.
- Jessica Milagros, one of the many lives lost that fateful night, remembered as “a beacon of love and light” by her friends.
- “Love is the answer to hate,” a sentiment echoed by countless individuals who came together to honor the memory of those taken from us too soon.
The Impermanence of Memory
As we grapple with the impermanence of digital memorials, it’s crucial that we also acknowledge the fragility of human memory. As Dr. Fred Ritchin, a scholar of memorialization, notes:
“Memorials are not just about remembering what happened, but also about how people felt and what they hoped would come from those events.”
In light of this, it’s essential that we find ways to preserve our digital memorials, even as the platforms themselves evolve or fade away. By doing so, we can ensure that the memories and lessons learned are not lost, but instead continue to inspire and educate future generations.
Visit the Pulse Vigil to learn more about the ongoing efforts to preserve digital memorials like this one.