A link being shared by many seeking to solicit support for the transformation of the Palm Grove Cemetery is authentic.
A review of the link using online tools shows that and it is not a scam as being claimed by some people who have come across it.
Rating Justification
To verify the link, we first observed that the creator of the link used a link shortener but the original domain www.change.org can still be seen on the forwarded message. This shows that the link is authentic.
When you click on the URL, it takes us to Change.org – a US based website that allows users to create and sign petitions to advance various social causes by raising awareness and influencing decision-makers. Change.org is a safe website that has all security measures (SSL) in place to protect personal information of visitors to the website.
We also reviewed the page of the petition and determined that it was created by Hnede Sillah. She stated on the web page that the petition was made to initiate a campaign to transform the Palm Grove Cemetery, which is located between Center and Gurley Streets, into a memorial park.
We then contacted, Madam Sillah to authenticate her identity and that the petition was initiated by her. She then confirmed the petition was started by her on January 26 and has gained almost 500 signatures from Liberians.
Said Madam Sillah: “The petition was started to give honor and respect to the dead, beautify the city and provide a serene environment where citizens can gather. Work with the necessary state actors in collaboration with the families of those who have their loved ones buried in the cemetery.”
Conclusion
Based on our review of the link and the contents of the petition, we conclude that the link calling for signature for the transformation of the Palm Grove Cemetery into a memorial park is authentic. The Link seeks is seeking support of a campaign for change and it is being channel through change.org and reputable website that help raise awareness and influence decision-makers to initiate social change.