Sunday, July 24, 2011

THE VIGIL FOR LEIBY KLETZKY: BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER

Tonight's vigil in Kensington
for Leiby Kletzky

Two weeks ago tomorrow, eight-year-old Borough Park resident Leiby Kletzky got lost while walking seven blocks to meet his parents. He asked a man in the street for directions. That man has confessed to kidnapping Leiby, murdering him, and--pardon us for writing these words--cutting him into pieces. Some of the pieces were found in the man's Kensington home. The man has confessed to the crimes, although he has pleaded "not guilty." 

Like people everywhere who heard about the crime, the residents of Kensington were horrified by its gruesome and unfeeling nature. The act was incomprehensible. And it was awful to know that the crime took place right in their neighborhood.

A few people organized a candlelight vigil in the P.S. 230 playground, and neighbors gathered together tonight vigil to honor the life of Leiby Kletzky. Afterward, people were invited to write their thoughts and feelings on a scroll that will be given to Leiby's parents.