Illinois Community Marks 'Wadee Day' to Honor Palestinian Child Killed in Hate Crime
September 21 has officially been designated “Wadee Day” in Illinois, honoring the young boy whose death drew nationwide attention.
The commemoration took place at Van Horn Woods East Park in Plainfield, where a playground has been named after him and a monument was unveiled earlier this summer, CBS News reported on Sunday.
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The event brought together family members, neighbors, activists, and state representatives. Community leaders said the dedication was meant not only to preserve Wadee’s memory but also to inspire broader efforts against hate. One speaker described the child as someone whose “heart was full of love, [and] spirit was bright.”
For those in attendance, the day carried a powerful message. “Today, for all of us, signifies a promise to fight for a future that Wadee deserved,” said another participant.
The gathering included a live painting session, children playing on the new playground, and music.
The ceremony was organized with the support of the Muslim Civic Coalition and Jewish Voice for Peace, reflecting a united call for tolerance. State legislators also joined, highlighting that the observance was made possible by a resolution passed earlier this year in the Illinois legislature.
Wadee Alfayoumi was killed in October 2023 when his landlord attacked him and his mother, stabbing the boy 26 times.
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His mother survived, but prosecutors said the attack was fueled by anti-Muslim sentiment and triggered by the outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas. The landlord was later convicted of murder and a hate crime.
“This child was murdered because of dehumanizing and hateful rhetoric,” said Amina Barhumi of the Muslim Civic Coalition during the event.
Others spoke about the personal impact of Wadee’s story. Samm Costello, who traveled two hours to attend, said she had never met the boy but felt changed after learning of his death.
“I’ll never forget the impact that he had on my life just from hearing his name on the news,” she said. Costello added that his memory has driven her to take a stand. “My eyes are open. They will continue to be open. I will keep advocating. I’ll keep fighting and speaking for those who are oppressed.”
The commemoration fell on the International Day of Peace, a coincidence organizers said reinforced the event’s purpose. They emphasized that every child deserves to live in safety and dignity and pledged to keep Wadee’s story alive. More legislative initiatives, they noted, are expected in the future.
Source: Agencies
