In the aftermath of the sexual assault of a 9-year old girl inside the Seward Park Library, a public forum is being planned this Sunday afternoon. The Lo-Down is co-sponsoring the event with the Seward Park Co-op and the 7th Precinct Community Council. Many other organizations are also involved.
Police circulated a sketch shortly after the May 6th incident, and continue to search for a suspect. The story struck a nerve with many parents (and resulted in widespread media coverage) — given the fact that the crime happened in such a public place.
Sunday’s forum will take place in the Mazer Theater at the Educational Alliance (197 East Broadway), from 1pm-2:30pm. Residents will have the opportunity to speak about safety concerns in the neighborhood. Personal safety experts will offer advice on preventing future incidents, especially those involving children. Elected officials, who will already be in the neighborhood for an event at the Hester Street Fair, have been invited to attend.
Julie Huang, a neighborhood resident and parent, has been instrumental in setting up the forum. Huang told us she felt strongly the community could do more than get the word out about a composite sketch, in the wake of this disturbing incident.
The Kaimen Company, her communications and consulting firm, is providing organizational support. Other groups involved include: the Chinese Chamber of Commerce the United Jewish Council of the East Side and the New York State Coalition Against Sexual Assault.
Throughout the week, you’ll be able to see forum updates and additional details by visiting the event listing on The Lo-Down’s Facebook Page. You can also go there to contact the forum’s organizers. They’re particularly interested in hearing from other neighborhood/advocacy groups looking to sign on and/or contribute educational materials for the event.
And, of course, if you have any information about the incident in the Seward Park Library, contact Crimestoppers.
