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June 4,2006 - June11,2006 |
Louise Russo and the kids against violence
Mayor David Miller opens city park named after her
By Paola Bernardini
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Louise Russo with Mayor Miller
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Our dream is to live in a safe city, without fear. United we can do it." With these words, Louise Russo gave the starting signal to the walk against violence held last Sunday in North York. The initiative - called WAVE: Walk Against Violence Everywhere - has been promoted by this Italian-Canadian woman, innocent victim of a shooting in April 2004 that left her in a wheelchair for life, and is designed especially for the youth.
"You are our future, and each of us can make a difference," said Louise to the youngsters who walked besides her, wearing an orange-coloured bandanna around their necks or on their heads. The 2.5-km walk was a way to say no to violence, from Finch & Weston Rd. to the former Flindon Park, which has now been renamed Louise Russo Park.
City councillor George Mammoliti launched the idea, and with the passing of his motion Louise Russo Park is now reality. Mammoliti marched with the Italian-Canadian woman, just like MP Judy Sgro and York Region Police Chief Armand LaBarge.
"The large participation of young people must not be underestimated," commented LaBarge. "People are sick and tired of living in fear, and these new generations will help us defeat violence. Louise Russo's initiative is praiseworthy also because she managed to attract many kids, raising their awareness of this issue."
Almost 400 people took part in Louise Russo's walk, which raised close to $38,000; this sum will be used to fund awards and bursaries that will be assigned in the fall to students between 12 and 19 years of age.
At the former Flindon Park the crowd increased to over 600 people who attended the celebration for the re-christening of the Louise Russo Park. Russo and the WAVE walkers were welcomed there by Toronto mayor David Miller. "We are very proud of being here today to rename this park after Louise Russo," said Miller. "Her courage and strength will inspire many to say no to violence." There were also MPs Joe Volpe and Ken Dryden, Provincial PC Leader John Tory, and Toronto Police Chief Bill Blair. "Louise Russo's courage is exemplary," remarked Blair. "Few people realize how hard it was for her to get out of the abyss of desperation and become a leader."
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