Dozens Rally For Ahmed
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IRVING (CBS11) - Illuminated by purple lights, a "#IStandWithAhmed" sign constructed by supporters gave light to a situation many feel has cast a dark shadow over the Irving community.
Dozens rallied outside of MacArthur High School on Thursday preaching for answers and change.
National outrage sparked after Ahmed Mohamed, 14, was arrested for bringing his homemade clock to school. At the time, the school and police believed the device was a hoax bomb.
"If this is really a bomb as they say, why don't they evacuate the building? Why?" questioned Mohamed Elhassan, Ahmed's father. "What happened to my son, doesn't look like America."
Across town at the Irving City Council meeting, residents sounded off about the incident and so did Irving's top police officer.
"We will learn from and build off of this and continue this growing relationship," said Chief Larry Boyd.
Boyd told council he plans to meet with Ahmed's family and pledged to continue building a relationship with the Muslim community.
The last few days have been rough on Ahmed and his father said he was too tired to attend the rally on Thursday but appreciates the support from everyone.
"He thinks there are people behind him you know? They will not forget him. He's not alone in the field. They will go with him until the end," said Elhassan.
Irving mayor Beth Van Duyne also told Chief Boyd she had 100% confidence in him and his officers.
Ahmed's dad plans to go to the police department on Friday to get the homemade clock back.
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