A plaque was dedicated at the spot, 2120 Fith Ave, where Jamiel Shaw was shot and killed by a 18th street gang banger. The plaque is to be placed next to a tree in which Jamiel planted with LA Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa three years ago for the Million Trees Initiative. Mayor Villaraigosa payed tribute to Jamiel and spoke about how he impressed him. The Mayor also ended his speech by saying "the circle of life, a truth without question." City Councilman Bernard Parks also spoke about Jamiel and how his family will have to deal with the pain and struggle every birthday and holiday for the rest of their lives. He said he does after losing his granddaughter to a senseless street shooting. Councilman Herb Wesson, Anita Shaw mother of Jamiel, and Jamiel Sr. his father also spoke at the dedication. Anita Shaw is a US Army Sergeant serving in Iraq. She is expected back to the middle east early next week, first to Kuwait and then Germany, to finish out her service. The Army has denied Anita Shaw any furlough from service. LA Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and several LA City Counncilpeople have written letters on Anita's behalf to have her Army service closer to home so she can take care of her younger son, 9 year old Thomas, and to attend the trial of her son's killer.
Photos by Ted Soqui c 2008
