This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost Australia, which closed in 2021.

#LightTheDark: Thousands Hold Candlelight Vigil For Dead Syrian Toddler Aylan Kurdi

#LightTheDark: Thousands Hold Candlelight Vigil For Dead Syrian Toddler

Video by Tom Compagnoni

The image of Syrian toddler Aylan Kurdi's lifeless body washed up on a Turkish beach last week shocked the world and brought the humanitarian toll Europe's migrant crisis into harrowing focus.

This image of dead Syrian toddler Aylan Kurdi shocked the world. (Associated Press)

On Monday night, Australians paid their respects.

Thousands of people gathered at candlelight vigils in parks across the country.

About 10,000 were thought to have attended the #LightTheDark event in Sydney's Hyde Park.

Thousands pay tribute to Aylan Kurdi in Sydney's Hyde Park. (Fairfax)

There were similar scenes in other Australian cities.

Melbourne's Treasury Gardens attracted thousands.

Darwin and Adelaide also held vigils.

As Europe faces the worst refugee crisis since World War II, much of the debate in Australia has focussed around what the Government can do to help.

Labor on Monday called for an extra intake of 10,000 refugees, while on Saturday NSW Premier Mike Baird said "stopping the boats can't be where this ends" in an emotional Facebook post prompted by the horrifying picture of three-year-old Kurdi.

Close
This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost Australia. Certain site features have been disabled. If you have questions or concerns, please check our FAQ or contact support@huffpost.com.