The vigil will be held on Monday 20th February
By Julia Gregory, Local Democracy Reporter
A vigil will held at the town in honour of the thousands of people who died in the devastating earthquakes in Syria and Turkey.
An estimated 42,000 people are known to have died in this month’s earthquake and thousands are homeless after the disaster.
Islington residents are invited to join the gathering at Islington Town Hall on Monday 20 February from 6pm to 6.45pm. Speakers at the event on Upper Street will include representatives from Islington’s Turkish and Syrian communities.
Religious and community groups in the borough have been fundraising for the disaster response after the earthquakes measuring 7.8 and 7.5 on the Richter scale struck on 6 February.
Councillors Rhoulin Khondoker, the executive member for equalities, culture, and inclusion and Una O’Halloran, who has responsibility for homes and communities said: “We’re heartbroken to see the devastation that has happened in the area.
“We have a large Turkish and Kurdish community in Islington, and we know they are hurting right now so it is important we offer support and solidarity.”
The council is working with other community and voluntary groups to see how to help those in need.
Thrive London has resources to help the Turkish and Syrian community in London who are suffering.
IMECE Women’s Centre in Newington Green Road is offering counselling to Islington residents affected by the disaster.
The Finsbury Park Mosque has raised more than £1,000 online for support by Islamic Relief.
The council said it cannot accept donations at the vigil and instead asks people to donate to charities with official fundraising appeals.
These also include the British Red Cross, Disasters Emergency Committee and the Human Relief Foundation
