Remembering Jo Cox

A year on from Jo Cox’s murder the family are calling for people to get together and connect with their neighbours in her memory. Presumably to nurture the spirit of British culture she hoped to represent before she was killed.

Though I suspect some communities will be more able and willing to get together in this respect than others, as the hung parliament is indicative of a divided mood and the events of the last few years have created conflicts that will take a while to heal.

Though heal I hope they do, as Britain is at its greatest when we come together to celebrate and achieve. At our best we have a generous and peaceful community.

After so many violent attacks in recent weeks I suspect many will be seeking to connect in a positive way, though it is sad we clearly have so far to go in persuading people not to attack each other.

A sad day in Trafalgar Square

I have a notebook full of notes about what happened today on Jo Cox's black birthday.

The fact that the square filled to capacity to commemorate this woman's death on the day of her birth is cause for hope, yet there was little to raise a smile.

A number of multi faith representatives were present, but did not speak.

It was Mariella Frostrup that mainly led proceedings.

Some heartening words were spoken by many of her family though right now I feel too sad to try and transcribe them, I may amend it later.

The pensioner that tried to save Jo's life is recovering his health, while she is being mourned by half the world it seems.

She stood for something

It was said that the values that she stood for were justice, equality and inclusion.

Yet there is nothing just about the murder of someone that has the bravery to stand and be elected to represent many.

This woman was no Hitler, she deserved to live a full and rich life.

Four music acts performed: a folk band called Diddly Dee who knew Jo, Lilly Allen one of her favourite performers and two choirs, one singing a song from Les Misérables and one of children.

And a poem was read: I will stand for love.

Malala also spoke.