This October, the Clapham community will gather at the bandstand on Clapham Common to mark 20 years since the death of Jody Dobrowski, who was murdered in a homophobic attack in 2005.
On the night of the attack, Jody was walking home across the Common when he was targeted by two men who believed he was gay. He was subjected to a sustained and violent assault and later died from his injuries. His death remains one of the most significant hate crime cases in the UK and a stark reminder of the consequences of prejudice and intolerance.
Remembering Jody
Since 2005, Clapham Common has held a particular significance as a place of remembrance. A memorial bench near the bandstand was installed to honour Jody’s life and to stand as a visible reminder of the need for compassion, equality and safety for all.
Last year, ahead of the 19th anniversary, the bench was found damaged and dislodged. With permission from Lambeth Parks and the support of the local community, it was restored free of charge by a local carpenter, Lex a quiet act of care that ensured the memorial remained a place of dignity and reflection.
A Vigil During Hate Crime Awareness Week
This year’s vigil takes place during National Hate Crime Awareness Week (11–18 October) and is intended not only to remember Jody, but to reaffirm the community’s commitment to standing against hate in all its forms.
The gathering offers a space for reflection, solidarity and shared remembrance, reinforcing the message that Clapham is a place where diversity is valued and protected.
Vigil Details
The vigil will take place as follows:
- Date: Wednesday 15 October
- Location: Clapham Common Bandstand
- Time:
- 5.45pm – Arrival
- 6.00pm – Speeches
- 6.15pm – Reflection
- 6.30pm – Close
All are welcome to attend.
Standing Together
Twenty years on, Jody Dobrowski is remembered not only as a victim of violence, but as a person whose life continues to inspire acts of unity, care and resistance to hatred.
The vigil is a reminder that remembrance matters and that communities play a vital role in ensuring such acts are neither forgotten nor repeated.