Community remembers 17-year-old Lisa, but safety concerns remain

Exactly one year ago, 17-year-old Lisa was tragically killed in Amsterdam when she was stabbed to death while cycling home. Lisa’s body was discovered near a cycleway in Duivendrecht, where she had been on the phone to the police. A 22-year-old man named Christ Jude, who is Nigerian, was later arrested and confessed to her murder, as well as the rape and attempted rape of two other women in Amsterdam.

To remember Lisa, a memorial will be held in Abcoude on Thursday, where people can leave notes or light candles in her honor. Lisa’s family expressed gratitude for the support they have received, stating that it has helped them move forward. The murder occurred during the Abcoude Festive Week, an annual event that organizers have now included a commemorative event in.

Since the tragedy, some changes have been made to improve public safety, but Danique de Jong argues that more needs to be done. She organized a campaign to raise funds for policy, education, and victim assistance, emphasizing the need for a cultural shift in addressing violence against women. According to Roos Koolhof, a healthcare psychologist, most assaults on women happen in familiar settings, such as by a neighbor, stepfather, boyfriend, or friend.

A survey by NOS Stories found that many women feel unsafe and carry keys for protection. Christ Jude's trial is scheduled to begin in January.