The Justice for Abdirahman Coalition (The Coalition), in collaboration with community partners and allies, will be holding a press conference at 5pm on Tuesday, October 20, 2020 at the steps of 55 Hilda Street.
The purpose of this event is to mark the closure of the trial and our wish to move forward to address the long standing gaps in between policing and the safety of our communities. All efforts will be made to keep the event as safe as possible while respecting COVID measures as responsibly as possible. City officials, Public Health Officials and Emergency Preparedness officials have all been notified.
It is expected that Justice Robert Kelly will begin his live public reading of the verdict and his reason on Zoom around 9 am. Depending on the length of the reading, the timing of the press conference may be adjusted in which case an updated media advisory will be issued. The Coalition and its key allies will share reactions to the verdict. Speakers include:
Speakers:
Monique Manatch, Algonquin Elder
Lawrence Greenspon, Lawyer for Abdi Family
Farhia Ahmed, Chair of Justice for Abdirahman
Joel Harden, MPP for Ottawa Centre (NDP)
Jeff Leiper, City Councillor for Kitchissippi Ward
Reverend Anthony Bailey, Parkdale United Church
Representative from the United Muslim Organizations of Ottawa Gatineau
Rabbi Iden Scher, Rabbi of Congregation Machzikei Hadas (tentative)
Richard Sharpe, 613/819 Black Hub
Social Media: JFA Facebook Page, JFA Twitter, JFA Instagram
Hashtag: #JusticeForAbdirahman
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: