Jersey City community holds candlelight vigil for victims of deadly Nepal flash flooding
The tragedy is being felt deeply in New Jersey, home to one of the nation's largest Nepali populations
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Members of New Jersey's Nepali community gathered in Jersey City Saturday night for a candlelight vigil. They prayed for loved ones who are still missing after devastating flash flooding and landslides in Nepal that have left hundreds dead.
Dozens of candles lit up the night as residents came together in grief and solidarity, hoping for answers as search and rescue efforts continue overseas.
"Everyone is grieving and everyone is devastated. Everyone is going through so much pain," said Dr. Bishnu Pariyar, the organizer with the organization Friends of Ewdan. "I think we need each other in this time."
Officials say an earthquake along the Nepal-China border triggered a massive landslide, worsening the destruction caused by the deadly flooding.
The tragedy is being felt deeply in New Jersey, home to one of the nation's largest Nepali populations. Bloomfield Mayor Jenny Mundell said two Bloomfield residents are among the dozens of Americans still missing.
"There are 2,500 people missing and we are hoping that if we do this candlelight vigil and prayers, they will come back," said one of the organizers.
Throughout the evening, vigil participants offered prayers for those who remain unaccounted for and for families anxiously waiting for news about their loved ones.
Local leaders also attended the vigil to show support for the grieving community.
"We spend a lot of time here at City Hall doing flag raisings and cultural events," said Councilman Tom Zuppa. "It's wonderful to come together in good times. We also have to come together in bad times to help and grieve for those who lost their lives and for loved ones who are grieving."
Friends of Edwan has launched a fundraiser to support people impacted by the disaster.
