ABC 7: Father attends remembrance for 6-year-old Muslim son 1 year after unincorp. Plainfield stabbing

October 15, 2024 CAIR-Chicago Communications

CHICAGO (WLS) -- One year later, the death of 6-year-old Wadee Alfayoumi in the south suburbs continues to have an impact on many people in the Chicago area.

President Joe Biden is among those marking this somber milestone and Wadee's father is among those gathering on Chicago's Northwest Side for a remembrance that is scheduled to begin Monday night.

Wadee died after being stabbed more than two dozen times on October 14th, 2023 at his home near Plainfield. His mother was critically wounded in the attack.

The Muslim family's landlord, Joseph Czuba, who prosecutors say was angered by Hamas' October 7th attack on Israel last year, has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder and hate crime charges. His trial is scheduled to begin in February.

"We're never going to forget what happened. We're never going to forget the atmosphere that was created that still lingers today," said CAIR Executive Director Ahmed Rehab.

Dozens of people gathered at Settler's Park in Plainfield to honor Wadee and grieve as a community on Sunday.

For Monday evening's remembrance, ABC7 is told Wadee's father, Odai Alfayoumi, specifically requested an intimate gathering at Chicago's Muslim Community Center and has told supporters that he does not want his son's memory politicized in any way.

He sat down with ABC7 after the remembrance on Monday evening. Speaking in Arabic, the father said he is filled with sadness, but still feels his son's presence and hears his voice.

In a statement, Biden said, in part, "On this day, let us all take steps that honor Wadee's memory and reaffirm together that there is no place for hate in America, including hatred of Palestinians, Arabs, and Muslims."

Last month, the U.S. Senate passed a resolution recognizing that Wadee death was the result of a hate crime.

Wadee's father urged people of all faiths to see the humanity in others.

In his grief, he said, it has brought him joy to know so many people all around the world have seen his son in their own children.