Bristol held a vigil today in solidarity with victims of the Charlie Hebdo terror attacks in France earlier this week.
A crowd of over 200 people gathered in front of the Hippodrome to show solidarity with the victims of the 7 January attacks on Charlie Hebdo satire magazine offices, which left 12 people dead, and subsequent siege of a Kosher supermarket in Paris claiming another 4 lives.
“The solidarity actions are ten times bigger in France; that’s why we’re here”, said two Bristol University students from Paris, France. French speakers were a noticeable minority amongst the people, with all age groups attending the vigil.
Most attendees were seen holding #JeSuisCharlie signs, pencils and notebooks. Some, however, opted for #JeSuisAhmed signs in response to the Muslim-faith policeman executed by one of the attackers in front of Charlie Hebdo offices.
Low-key Police presence surrounded the gathering, as other publications capitalised on the opportunity to engage a large audience; members of Socialist Worker were seen handing out flyers and newspapers.
“We believe more questions need to be asked about the racist nature of Charlie publication and Islamophobia”, said an unnamed representative of the Socialist Worker.
Following a number of speakers expressing their views, the vigil finished later in the afternoon.
A group of students were heard saying: “We showed our solidarity; now who’s up for Nando’s?”
Pictures courtesy of Sam Atkinson Photography:
By Ben Gerdziunas
