To commemorate the death of Suleiman, an immigrant who was killed in 2009, the Migrants’ Network for Equality is organising a candle-light vigil against racism to be held in Paceville (near Burger King) today at 6pm. The public is invited to come for this peaceful gathering against racism. People are also being kindly asked to bring candles with them.

Suleiman Ismail Abubaker was killed after an aggression that took place in Paceville in June 2009. He was punched in the face by a club security after being refused entry in a night-club, and then kicked while lying on the ground by three passers-by unknown to him. Although two years have passed from the death of Suleiman, many clubs in Paceville still refuse entry to African migrants. However, the problem of racism is not confined to Paceville. While immigrants in Malta find many people that understand them and treat them equally, they also face discrimination in their everyday life, and even incidents of violent racism.

Today’s gathering will not be an accusation of racism directed towards the Maltese people, but just a recognition that racism still exists. For it to stop, we must stand up and be counted against all types of racist behaviour.

The Migrants’ Network for Equality is a network made up of representatives of different migrant communities in Malta. For more information send an email on [email protected].

Osman Dicko

obo/Migrants’ Network for Equality