MONTREAL – A spontaneous makeshift memorial has been set up for murder victim Lin Jun in the Norman Bethune Square on Guy St. in downtown Montreal in an attempt to show support for his family, who arrived in Montreal a few days ago to carry Lin back to China.
Two photos of Lin, along with a few bouquets of flowers and some heartfelt letters, adorned a statue of Bethune, who is viewed as a hero in China for aiding Mao’s army during the revolution.
Luca Rocco Magnotta, the suspect in this horrific dismemberment case, has received heavy media coverage in the past few weeks.
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Many Montrealers feel the coverage barely touches on the victim but rather, focuses on Magnotta’s disturbing appeal.
“It’s not equal coverage,” said Guillame Chameau, a student at Concordia University.
“It’s evident that the media has sensationalized the case and is focusing more on Magnotta and his horrible deeds.”
Montrealers have taken it upon themselves to offer support and some sort of comfort to Lin’s friends and family.
Concordia University has created a Jun Lin Award in his honour to benefit Chinese students studying at the university.
Concordia’s Chinese Student Association also established a Jun Lin Family Fund to provide financial assistance for the immediate needs of the Lin family.
Although well-intentioned, not everyone agrees with handing over money to the Lin family.
“Money is not useful for his parents,” said Jing Hu, an acquaintance of Lin and a Concordia Student.
“I think the memorial is a good idea, at least they – the parents – may feel a little warm because of it.”
To make a donation, visit the Advancement and Alumni Relations website.
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