Here is a message from Togo’s family!
We are here to make sure Togo did not die in vain. We will be here to demand reform.
On the night of April 21, 2021, Togo, a beloved family dog, became the latest victim of Venice’s continued degeneration when a transient threw an accelerant into his home, burning him alive. In his short life, Togo returned the compassion shown to him as a rescue, acting as a heroic service dog and touching all those who crossed his path.
We pray that Togo’s final anguished cries will not be in vain. We are determined to give meaning to this senseless loss and bring attention to the violence in Venice that has terrorized both our housed and unhoused neighbors. We want to call out our absent politicians who ignore the cries of the community. We demand action, we demand change, we demand justice for Togo — and for all other victims of this failure in political and humanitarian leadership.
Please join us for a candlelight vigil Sunday May 2nd at 7pm in front of Lifeguard Tower 26 in Santa Monica to celebrate the life of our four legged angel.
Devon Steigerwald (Togo’s godmother and rescuer), Courtney Gillenwater (Togo’s mom), and Togo
About Togo’s Mom:
Dr. Courtney Gillenwater, a 5ft 2 pediatrician and U.S. Navy veteran, is a U.S. Goodwill Ambassador and international humanitarian, with a history of volunteering as a physician in disaster areas, humanitarian crises and post-conflict zones. Click here to read more!
