At least two vigils are planned in Charlotte on Sunday to honor those killed and injured in Friday’s terror attack in Paris.
Mecklenburg County’s honorary consul of France, Laura Meyer Wellman, has announced a peace gathering and candlelight walk in Freedom Park (1900 East Boulevard ), beginning at 3:45 pm in the band shell area. The event is co-sponsored by the French-American Chamber of the Carolinas and the Alliance Francaise of Charlotte.
A second vigil, which will also commemorate terror victims in Beirut, Lebanon, will be held in Marshall Park (800 E. 3rd St.) at 6 p.m. This event is sponsored by The Islamic Center of Charlotte and Being There.
“These savage attacks on civilians, whether they occur in Paris, Beirut or any other city, are never acceptable and can’t be justified,” the Islamic center said in a statement released Saturday. “We condemn these horrific crimes in the strongest terms possible. Our thoughts and prayers are with the loved ones of all of those who (have) lost someone due to senseless violence.”
Nearly 2,000 French citizens live in Mecklenburg County and the surrounding area, according to county spokesman.
In addition to the vigils, Mecklenburg County also will honor France at Romare Bearden Park (300 S Church St.). On Monday, fountain lights in the park will be in the colors of the French flag.
