Around 2,500 people gathered at Tamar Park last night in a vigil for the victims of last week’s terrorist attacks in Paris. Attendees from all backgrounds – expats and locals alike – gathered in the open area, lighting candles and laying flowers.
The vigil was organised by the French Consulate General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, and dignitaries from other EU diplomatic missions were among the invited. Chief Executive CY Leung paid his respects at the park before the commencement of events.
Consul General of France Eric Berti gave the opening speech at 6:45pm, condemning the terrorists’ action as an act against the French community. He noted that French values transcend gender, race and religion, adding that France is united against terrorism.
Berti also outlined the importance of tolerance, understanding and dialogue – rather than only aggression – to counter the threat of extremism. He thanked the EU dignitaries and Hong Kong citizens for standing with France at these difficult times.
A one-minute silence was observed as EU dignitaries were invited on stage. The crowd sang the French national Anthem “La Marseillaise” to mark the official end of the event. Dozens stayed later to light candles and contemplate the attacks of Friday, Nov. 13 that left 132 dead and 353 injured.
Victor Tesniere, 33, a Parisian expat, said he went to the vigil show his support to the French community here and his friends back home. He added that he feels frustrated that he cannot be in his country, and sees the ceremony as a way to be closer.
“All [the places attacked] are very familiar to any Parisian,” Tesniere said. “They are all places where young people go. The stadium is, of course, a famous icon in Paris, the Bataclan is where we all go watch concerts, and all those bars are all part of our lives. We all went there, we all had a coffee or drinks there.”
“Paris is a city of love – they wanted to prevent us from drinking, watching sports, and listening to music,” he added.
Victor’s wife, Sandrine, 35, said she was impressed by the turnout in Hong Kong. “We feel it’s good to gather to commemorate and reflect upon our core values,” she said. “It’s good to see we are having a lot of support from the local communities and all nationalities gathered here… we have a very strong and huge community here in Hong Kong.”
Moying Chap, 36, originally from Lyon, said he had been calling home the entire weekend, and is moved by the local support. “It’s very warm and I think it is important to be here,” he said.
Chap attended the event with a local colleague, who said he has seen shared feeds of those affected by the attacks on Facebook, making him feel “close to them”. He added that he hopes Parisians can keep their faith amid the hard times.
“If feels like it could be any one of us, just a matter of which day”, he said.
EDITOR’S NOTE: A previous version of this article stated that there were 300 people in attendance. This was incorrect, and the article has been amended in light of a statement released by the French Consulate General. We regret the error.
Photos: Adrian Lo
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