"We share Paris' agony:" Milwaukee stands with Paris as mini Eiffel Tower erected at City Hall
MILWAUKEE -- Milwaukee's mini Eiffel Tower was erected at City Hall on Monday, November 16th. It stands as a tribute to the victims of the Paris attacks -- and was the gathering spot for a vigil on Monday evening, November 16th. This, as folks in Milwaukee stand in solidarity with those in France, and we honor the victims of Friday's terror attacks.
The idea was raised mainly by FOX6's Brad Hicks -- who started a push on social media, encouraging the community to help pay respects.
On Sunday, November 15th, the group working to make this happen, including officials from the East Town Association, Open Road Events and the city, held a planning meeting at a site outside City Hall.
On Monday morning, the parts to the tower began arriving at City Hall. It took much of the day to assemble.
Then at 5:15 p.m., Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett led a 15-minute vigil to honor the victims of the Paris terror attacks. The Eiffel Tower and vigil were all held at the southeast corner of Water and Wells.
One woman told FOX6 News some of her friends are still unaccounted for after Friday's attacks, and Milwaukee's mini Eiffel Tower made her feel close to home.
The Eiffel Tower was meant to show support for the at least 129 people who died in the attacks.
"I do know people who know people who are not -- who have passed away or in the hospital. Between life and death," Nadia Moussaoui.
Moussaoui is originally from outside of Paris. She is taking part in an internship in Milwaukee at the French Immersion School.
"It feels like a bit of France here. It feels like home, a bit," Moussaoui said.
"We share Paris` agony because the attacks could have occurred in any city," Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett said.
Among the crowd for Monday evening's vigil was 14-year-old Kate Riordan. She and her Girl Scout group will visit Paris in the summer. It is a trip they have planned for months, and a trip they'll now take with a heavy heart.
"That innocent people would have that happen to them is awful. When I`m in Paris, it will sort of be emotional," Riordan said.
As for how long the Eiffel Tower will remain standing in Milwaukee, Mayor Barrett says that will be assessed on a day-to-day basis.