“Today is about mourning,” said Valéry Freland, consul general of France in Boston, as he spoke to thousands gathered for a Rally in Support of Paris at noon yesterday, Nov. 15, 2015, at the Parkman Bandstand on Boston Common. “I thank the New England people and their representatives for being with us.”
Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker, Mass. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, and Boston Mayor Marty Walsh joined him and the crowd to honor the victims of the terrorist bombings and shootings in Paris on Nov. 13.
Freland followed his brief remarks by asking for a moment of silence. The politicians then moved to the Marquis de Lafayette Plaque on the Tremont Street side of the Common. The crowd sang the French national anthem, “La Marseillaise,” and then followed.
(All photos here copyright Greg Cook.)
Valéry Freland, consul general of France in Boston, speaks at the rally. He was joined on the bandstand by Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren (left) and Boston Mayor Marty Walsh. (Greg Cook)
A man wipes away a woman’s tears. (Greg Cook)Boston Marathon Bombing hero Carlos Arredondo stands at the front of the crowd at the bandstand holding a sign “Je Suis Paris” (I Am Paris). (Greg Cook)“Peace for Paris.” (Greg Cook)Valéry Freland, consul general of France in Boston, standing at center on the Parkman Bandstand leads a moment of science. He was joined on the bandstand by Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker, Mass. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, and Boston Mayor Marty Walsh. (Greg Cook)“11-13: Never … Baguette! Proud to be French he he! United we stand! We are not afraid! (And never will be.) Je Suis Charlie. Pray for Paris.” (Greg Cook)“Paris Is Strong.” (Greg Cook)
Valéry Freland, consul general of France in Boston, speaks at the rally. He was joined on the bandstand by Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker, Mass. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, and Boston Mayor Marty Walsh. (Greg Cook)“Solidarite!” (Greg Cook)
