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Bristol holds vigil for Beirut
The Lebanese flag continues to fly at half-mast on College Green as Bristol shows its support after the explosion in Beirut which killed some 200 people and left thousands injured.
Hibaq Jama, Labour councillor for Lawrence Hill and Bristol City Council’s international trade & investment ambassador, organised a vigil following the tragic events.
Jama said: “Our deepest sympathies go out to everyone affected by this gut-wrenching tragedy. Bristolians stand in solidarity with the people of Lebanon and ask that, where people are able to do so, we consider supporting charities who are working in Beirut to provide humanitarian support to those left without food and shelter.
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“Bristol is a global city and we will continue to raise awareness of the situation in Beirut. Our thoughts remain with everyone affected by events in Beirut – including their loved ones across Lebanon, in Bristol, and around the world.”
Hibaq Jama (centre) on College Green – photo: Labour Bristol
Dan Green, from Bridges for Communities, an Easton-based charity that connects people of different cultures and faiths, added: “Bridges for Communities sends our deepest condolences to the victims of the explosion in Beirut last week.
“The people of Beirut played a major role in inspiring our charity to exist and we will always be thankful for that.
“We pray for comfort for those who’ve lost loved ones and livelihoods, and for hope that the positive change that you deserve will somehow be born out of this terrible tragedy.”
Rizwan Ahmed, from Bristol Muslim Cultural Society, said: “Many of us will have witnessed the devastation that took place in Beirut.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected and pray that they are able to find the strength to pull through this difficult period.
“On a human level, we can all help by reaching out with the hand of friendship and support to show the people of Beirut they are not alone during this crisis.”
Main photo: Labour Bristol
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