On November 22, 2015, a vigil was held for Tamir Rice near the spot where he was shot,one year earlier.
by David C. Barnett
A couple hundred people from across the country gathered in Northeast Ohio, yesterday, to remember Tamir Rice. The vigil took place in a Cleveland park just a few feet from where the twelve-year-old was shot by a police officer who thought the pellet gun he had been carrying was real. The ceremony was part of a series of events commemorating the one-year anniversary of the boy’s death.
A mix of family members, local and national activists, and a crew of documentary filmmakers huddled on a chilly November afternoon in Cudell Park, on city’s westside. Tamir’s grandfather, Eugene Rice, offered an opening prayer.
"I thank you Lord, for everything you’ve done for us. We are seeking justice for my grandson. We miss him, so much."
As a lengthy investigation into the shooting continues, the family plans to deliver petitions, this afternoon, asking Cuyahoga County prosecutor, Timothy McGinty to recuse himself and appoint a special prosecutor to take-up the case. McGinty has maintained that the pace of the investigation reflects his desire to be thorough.
Tamir Rice’s mother, Samaria, thanked the crowd for supporting her family over the past year.
"I will continue to embrace you guys’ support," she said. "I’m fighting for justice for all."
During a minute of silence, twelve doves were released into a cloudy sky --- one for every year of Tamir Rice’s life.
