Around 30 people participated in the rally on May 18th in Aarau.
This was significantly less than expected, but still not a bad result considering the short notice.
Unfortunately, no one from the High Court was willing to speak with us. Apparently, the Aargau High Court is off today, even though, at its instigation, an innocent girl will have to remain in isolation even longer. It's truly alarming how officials treat children. One could easily believe they couldn't care less about what happens to Sandra.
We, for our part, will continue to follow this matter.
Media reports on the rally:
Radio Argovia Midday News
Tele M1 News
SF1 Switzerland News
The Aargauer Zeitung reported in its edition of May 19, 2007 as follows:
© Aargauer Zeitung / MLZ; 19.05.2007; Page 24
Protest against deportation before the High Court
Aarau – Vigil in custody battle over 13-year-old "Sandra":
Around two dozen women, men, and children demonstrated yesterday in front of the Aargau High Court against the deportation of a 13-year-old girl from the Fricktal region. The child is to be returned to her mother in Brazil against her will.
"Sandra" (the child's fictitious name) should stay here," demanded the participants on banners. The vigil in front of the courthouse in Aarau was organized by the Aargau region of the association "Responsibly Raising Fathers and Mothers" (vev). It was supported by various child protection organizations. The child's wishes and well-being should not be ignored by the courts, said vev President Oliver Hunziker. A 13-year-old who has spent 11 years of her life in Switzerland is perfectly capable of deciding for herself where she wants to live and in what social environment she wants to grow up. Hunziker accused the authorities of treating the girl like a "serious criminal." According to experts, confinement in a children's home would be "very stressful for the girl."
The guardianship chamber of the High Court was asked to make a decision in the best interests of the child. Sufficient discretion exists. (sda)