***For immediate release***
MEDIA ADVISORY
The Justice for Abdirahman Coalition announce a Vigil and Community Gathering to mark the start of the criminal trial in the case of Abdirahman Abdi’s death
(OTTAWA, ON) The Justice for Abdirahman Coalition, in collaboration with community partners and allies, will be holding a Vigil and Community gathering remembering the life and death of Abdirahman Abdi on Friday, February 1, 2019.
Beginning on February 4, 2019, Ottawa will be home to a much anticipated trial. On March 6, 2017, the Ontario Special Investigations Unit (SIU) alleged that Const. Daniel Montsion was responsible for the brutal killing of Abdirahman Abdi and he was charged with manslaughter, aggravated assault and assault with a weapon. Nearly three and half years later, the Criminal trial of Const. Daniel Monstion is set to begin.
This community vigil is planned ahead of the the trial to offer a safe space for the community to congregate and mourn Abdi’s death The vigil will take place on Friday, February 1 from 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm. The crowd will gather at Somerset Square Park (2 Spadina Avenue) and walk to Bayview Yards (7 Bayview Rd) where there will be short speeches, prayers, and calls to action. Please note: those with accessibility needs can contact: muna.m@outlook.com
Organizers welcome all members of the public to this event, especially those touched by the brutal killing of Abdirahman.
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Community Partners and Speakers List:
Jeff Leiper, City councillor for Kitchissippi Ward
Joel Harden, Member of Provincial Parliament for Ottawa-Center
Ahmed Khalil, Muslim Association of Canada
Rev Anthony Bailey, Parkdale United Church
Family Member
Community Artist
Hintonburg Community Association
Social Media: Website, JFA Facebook Page, JFA Twitter
Hashtags: #JFAVigil #JusticeForAbdi
About Abdirahman Abdi’s Case
Abdirahman Abdi was a 37 year old Somali-Canadian with mental health issues. He lived in Ottawa’s Hintonburg community at 55 Hilda Street. On July 24th 2016, following an incident at a local coffee shop where police were called, Abdirahman began running home for safety. Scared and confused, Abdirahman was violently attacked by Ottawa Police officers as he attempted to flee to his home for shelter and safety. Abdirahman’s life was cut short as a result of that violent interaction on July 24, 2016. On March 6, 2017, the Ontario Special Investigations Unit (SIU) alleged that Const. Daniel Montsion was responsible for the brutal killing of Abdirahman Abdi and was charged with manslaughter, aggravated assault and assault with a weapon.
About Justice for Abdirahman (JFA)
In just a few short days following Abdirahman’s death, a group was formed: The Justice for Abdirahman Coalition was born. Based in Ottawa, the Coalition is supported by local and national advocacy groups. The group has advocated tirelessly to bring justice by way of legislative and policy reforms to ensure that what happened to Abdirahman would never happen again to anyone.
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For questions:
613-407-8740
613-600-0400
Thank you for your dedication to justice. Also for using your voices to help highlight the importance of citizens rights (includes the right to safety and security), democracy and the rule of law in a democratic society such as Canada.
Anne Clarke