The story of Jason Arday has touched so many people. This was evidenced by the incredible numbers who, at very short notice, descended upon Trafalgar Square to pay their respects.

Jason was an incredible achiever: a beacon of light in terms of black empowerment; a fantastic role model. Where most people would have seen a barrier, he saw it as an opportunity. At the age of 3, he was diagnosed with Global Development Delay and autism. He did not speak his first words until he was 11, and began to read and write at 18.

The vigil had a number of speakers, including Lord Simon Woolley (founder of Operation Black Vote) and Dawn Butler MP – all speaking powerfully about the media witch hunt that eventually led to Jason sadly taking his own life. A number of senior figures from the Green Party were also present, including Leader of the Party Zack Polanski, London Assembly Member Caroline Russell, and Mayor of Hackney Zoë Garbett.

It is fair to say that this whole episode has had a profound effect on many people, and that lessons from the Leveson Report have not been learned. As one speaker said, ‘This is not the end. This must be the beginning in terms of holding media outlets to account and forcing change.’

Jason was a father, a son, a brother, and much more to many people.

Rest in Power, Professor Jason Arday.

Photos and article provided by Fevzi Hussein