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Laura Ann Carleton, the owner of Mag.Pi clothing store in California’s San Bernardino Mountains, was known for her unwavering support of the LGBTQ+ community. She fearlessly responded to repeated removals of the store’s rainbow Pride flag by putting up larger ones.
Tragically, at around 5 p.m. On a Friday, Laura Ann Carleton was fatally shot by a man who had made derogatory remarks about the Pride flag. The man fled the scene but was later killed in a confrontation with law enforcement. It’s unclear if the shooting is being investigated as a hate crime.
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Remembering Laura Ann Carleton: A Mother, an Ally, and a Beacon of Compassion
Laura Ann Carleton’s daughter, Ari Carleton, described her as fearless and someone who prioritized others over herself. She was deeply involved in her community and had turned her shop into a relief center during a blizzard.
Laura’s daughter emphasized her mother’s dedication to love, acceptance, and equality. The store, Mag.Pi, was a space where she shared ethically sourced clothing and even her own designs, reflecting these values.
Laura had been targeted by flag removals in the past, yet she continued to show her support. She was not part of the LGBTQ+ community herself but was a devoted ally, recognized by the Lake Arrowhead LGBTQ+ group as a “business ally.” Her passing is mourned by the community, with plans for a vigil in her honor.
Laura Ann Carleton is survived by her husband and nine children. Her daughter wants her mother to be remembered for her strong convictions and her dedication to defending something that was profoundly meaningful to her. Despite the tragedy, Laura’s spirit of compassion and advocacy continues to inspire.
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Source: The New York Times
