Chicago area gatherings honor victims of France terror attacks

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Two events Sunday, one in downtown Chicago, one in suburban Skokie, were held to honor the memory of those killed in the French terror attacks last week and to call for an end to such violence.

Paris is a sister city of Chicago's, and Sunday night many are standing in solidarity with the French people and the principle of free speech.

In Skokie Sunday night there were prayers for peace at an annual gathering of Chicago-area Jews. A candle was lit in honor of the victims, the 12 killed at Charlie Hebdo, the slain French policewoman and the four hostages murdered at a kosher grocery.

"We are coming together to acknowledge, to pray for those that are wounded and hurt and terrified," said Rabbi Meir Moscowitz, Lubavitch of Chabad of Illinois.

"To support freedom of speech, freedom of thought and ideas, and not to be murdered for it," said Niles resident Ellen Levine.

Earlier, hundreds filled Daley Plaza in downtown Chicago in a show of solidarity with the French people, many with their own personal ties to that country.

"It's been incredibly difficult, obviously, dealing with this while away from my family," said Eve Zuckerman, who has relatives in France. "My sister's school is very close to where one of the hostage situations was. Her school was on lockdown."

Candles were lit for the 17 victims, hearts lined up in their honor.

"Just like when the towers fell here, everybody kind of came together," said Nathalie Dunand. "I feel it's the same way. Western countries are facing the same challenges, and I think people at the heart of it just feel the same way."

Those gathered in Skokie Sunday night asked to honor the victims with acts of kindness, cards documenting their good deeds to then be sent to France.

"It's beautiful to see how people care so much, that everyone really wants goodness and kindness and peace," said Rabbi Elyahu Silverberg.

Sunday night, the Jewish United Fund and Jewish Federation of Chicago announced a fundraising effort to help the French Jewish community and others. To make a donation, visit www.donate.juf.org.

The Jewish Federation created an online condolence page for those who wanted to express their sympathies. The group is also hosting a memorial for the victims of the Paris terror attacks on Wednesday at noon. Attendees should register online.