(photo courtesy of the 4th District Council Office)

Los Angeles City Councilman Tom LaBonge, 4th District, was joined by Consul General of France Axel Cruau and Griffith Park superintendent Joe Salaices for a memorial tree planting at the Griffith Park Bird Sanctuary in honor and remembrance of the 17 victims of the tragedy that occurred in Paris, France. From Jan. 7-9, 17 people were killed in attacks at the Charlie Hebdo Newspaper and a kosher grocery store.

Officials and community members planted 17 trees in remembrance of the victims.

“Since the attacks, thousands in France have gathered through true symbolic demonstrations calling for peace and unity,” LaBonge said. “This tragedy not only brought people together in France, but also throughout the world, including Los Angeles.”

On Jan. 11, LaBonge joined the Cruau, elected officials, rabbis, religious leaders and hundreds of Angelenos outside of Los Angeles City Hall to pay tribute to the victims.

“Our thoughts are always with those who were affected by the events of those three days and we stand with them for the vision of a safe, inclusive future for all,” LaBonge said.