Daily Reports
Nearly a thousand people gathered in Nanterre to pay tribute to Nahel, a teenager killed by a police officer on June 27, 2023, after refusing to comply. The silent march, led by Nahel's mother, Mounia Merzouk, and his friends, began around 2:30 p.m. and concluded at Nelson Mandela Square, the site of his death.
Mounia Merzouk expressed her gratitude to the participants and reminisced about her son, describing him as 'joyful, helpful, and always smiling.' She emphasized the value of the lives of children in the neighborhoods and demanded justice for her son. 'The lives of our children in the neighborhoods have value. No matter what we do, we cannot remove a child like that. This is unforgivable,' she stated.
The march, which saw no visible police presence, included activists like Fatma from the Urgence Palestine collective and Bouna Mbaye, who highlighted the recurring nature of police violence and its impact on people of color. The demonstrators also expressed their concerns about the upcoming legislative elections and the potential rise of fascism.
Mounia Merzouk called on young people to 'wake up' and participate in the elections to prevent further deaths and protect their children. The march, involving around 650 people according to the police headquarters, ended peacefully with chants of 'Justice for Nahel!' and 'No justice, no peace!'
The march was organized on the eve of the first round of early legislative elections, with Mounia reiterating her call for calm, dignity, and contemplation. The route of the march was modified to start at the Charles-de-Gaulle esplanade and end at Nelson Mandela Square. The mayor of Nanterre, Raphaël Adam, was present at the march, emphasizing the city's demand for justice for Nahel and all the youth of Nanterre.
The police officer involved in the shooting, Florian M., was released from pre-trial detention in November and placed under judicial supervision. The judicial investigation into the incident continues, with a reconstruction of the events having taken place in May.
- The silent march in Nanterre was a poignant reminder of the tragedy that struck the community a year ago. Participants, including Nahel's friends and activists, gathered to honor his memory and demand justice.
- Mounia Merzouk's heartfelt words resonated with many, as she spoke about the irreplaceable loss of her son and the need for accountability. Her call for young people to engage in the electoral process highlighted the importance of civic participation in driving change.
- The absence of police during the march allowed for a peaceful demonstration, with participants expressing their frustrations and hopes for a better future. The event underscored the ongoing issue of police violence and the need for systemic reforms.
- The presence of Nanterre's mayor, Raphaël Adam, at the march signified the local government's support for the community's demand for justice. His words echoed the sentiments of many residents who seek accountability and change.
- The judicial proceedings against the police officer, Florian M., are still ongoing, with the community closely monitoring the developments. The outcome of the investigation will be crucial in determining the next steps for justice and reconciliation.
