Emotional demonstrators were seen hugging and shaking hands with brave firefighters during a solemn march in memory of the tragic events at Grenfell Tower, marking its ninth anniversary.
The survivors, bereaved families, and local residents came together for what is expected to be the final commemoration before the complete demolition of the tower. Over 1,500 individuals, many donning green attire, walked silently on Sunday evening to honor the victims while they continue to seek justice.
During the march, protesters carried signs with messages such as “this much evidence, still no charges” and “enough is enough”, alongside green hearts and balloons. As the procession reached Ladbroke Grove, London Fire Brigade personnel lined the route, where tearful exchanges of gratitude and support took place.
Representatives from Grenfell United, representing many survivors and bereaved families, described the walk as a show of solidarity to honor those lost and demand accountability, emphasizing that this year marks the final anniversary with any remnants of Grenfell Tower standing.
The group expressed disappointment over unfulfilled promises made by governments post-Grenfell, highlighting the prolonged wait for justice and the lack of meaningful action despite commitments. They stressed the unbearable delay in criminal justice, causing prolonged suffering for the affected community.
Authorities recently disclosed that up to 20 companies and 57 individuals might face criminal charges related to the fire, with decisions expected before the 10th anniversary next year, according to the Metropolitan Police.
At a memorial service held earlier, messages from the families of Gloria Trevisan and Marco Gottardi, trapped in the tower during the fire, were read aloud. Their families expressed profound sorrow and anger, demanding justice for their loved ones lost due to the avarice and negligence that led to the tragedy.
The public inquiry into the blaze in 2017 found systemic failures and dishonest practices within the building industry and governments, resulting in the avoidable disaster at Grenfell Tower. The inquiry’s findings exposed a series of malpractices and negligence that contributed to the catastrophic event.
Reflecting on the tragic aftermath, a local resident and volunteer, Pat, recollected the community’s unity and support following the fire, emphasizing the profound impact it had on the lives of those affected, who lost everything and continue to seek closure and justice.
Choose Daily Mirror as a ‘Preferred Source’ on Google News for quick access to the news you value.
At Reach and across our entities we and our partners use information collected through cookies and other identifiers from your device to improve experience on our site, analyse how it is used and to show personalised advertising. You can opt out of the sale or sharing of your data, at any time clicking the “Do Not Sell or Share my Data” button at the bottom of the webpage. Please note that your preferences are browser specific. Use of our website and any of our services represents your acceptance of the use of <a data-testid="cipa-cookie-notice-link" href="https://www.mirror.co.uk/cookie-policy/" rel="noreferrer" target
