Justice for Grenfell slogan, beneath the westway
7 months after the tragedy that took 71 lives, the Grenfell Tower block disaster left a major impact throughout the London community and beyond. The towers burnt down in June 2017 with an aftermath of loss, tragedy, paranoia and a government office lacking any ability to give answers.
Grenfell Tower post fire tragedy
What happened...?
On 14th June 2017, a fire started on the fourth floor (a fridge freezer believed to be the cause), igniting a 60 hour long flame that would catapult a major disaster uncommon in this great city. The fire spread fast leaving the blazing council tower little to no chance of being rescued. The rapid state of acceleration at which the fire grew is believed to have been supported by the exterior cladding used to cover the tower, made of a mixture of materials, all of which were cause for concern prior to the fire. It has since been confirmed that the council responsible for a major renovation project in 2016 overlooked the safety measures in favour of cutting costs.
"Basically, no one wants to take responsibility..." said one of the local residents from Ladbroke Grove who asked to remain anonymous. "The council screwed up and now they just wanna brush the whole thing under the carpet."
Wall under Westway bridge, London W10
Who Is Responsible...?
Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea admitted some limited liability. Yet, the block was managed by Kensington and Chelsea Tenant Management Organisation who oversaw the renovation in 2016. The Government as a whole also have stained hands with accusations of their office ignoring warnings over fire safety in council blocks. All this has further spurred friction between local residents and an already flawed RBKC, who has a reputation for disregarding the under priveledged over the wealthy.
"It's a conspiracy, no doubt." said Mo, a RBKC resident. "These people think we're stupid. They're getting rid of the little people, they don't care about the poor man. To them, we're just a bunch of foreigners and they want us out."
Conspiracy under the Westway
This is not an isolated perception. Mo's dystopian view has gained momentum and awoken an entire localised movement, demanding Justice For Grenfell.
Now What...?
Writing in January 2018, 7 months after the tragedy, the impact of this atrocious incident lingers. Under the Westway, a community speaks, voices are on display and the tragedy has a place to be supported and find rest. The Westway is littered with wall writings and art, condolences and cries... the energy is to fight for justice, to never forget and to find answers. It also offers comfort...
Westway Grenfell Victims' community space
"There is a lot of respect here. As you come around the corner you are overwhelmed by the response, the effort these people have done, so direct, honest, strong emotions." said Carlos, a visitor from Equador. "Back home we have many social movements like this and they are good for the people!"
Roadside shrine
It is unfortunate yet realistic to admit that justice in this case may hardly prevail. It is difficult to know where to point fingers, for once you start, where do you stop? And is blame really ever the food for healing?
