Thousands mourn dead black academic in London vigil

In a somber vigil held in Trafalgar Square, London, thousands came together to mourn the loss of black academic Jason Arday. The 41-year-old, Cambridge's youngest ever black professor, was found dead last week after being accused of plagiarism and exaggerating his personal achievements. The cause of his death remains under investigation, with police stating it was not suspicious.

Cambridge University's chancellor, Chris Smith, condemned the "racist feeding frenzy" surrounding the allegations, stating it was important to investigate the claims rigorously. However, he also emphasized the need to refuse participation in the same racism.

Arday, who had autism and developmental difficulties, resigned on August 5, stating he had reached his limit. His family, though absent from the vigil, released a statement thanking supporters for their love and support. They emphasized Arday's selflessness and gentleness, expressing concern over the misrepresentation of his character.

MP Diane Abbott, the first black woman elected to the UK parliament, addressed the rally, saying Arday felt resigned to the attacks on him would stop after his resignation, but they only intensified. She stressed that this was not just a campaign against the professor but against all of them.

The cause of Arday's death is yet to be confirmed, but the media pressure and racism surrounding the plagiarism allegations are under scrutiny. A petition demanding a public inquiry into the media coverage had gathered over 90,000 signatures, with accusations of press harassment and racism at its core. The university is also under questioning for its handling of the situation.