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City Desk

The American Kurdish Information Network’s “Cell of Atonement” protest vigil ( “Tough Cell,” 8/31) across from Turkish Ambassador Baki Ilkin’s residence in Sheridan Circle will end on Thursday night at 6 p.m. with a ceremony attended by Rep. Bob Filner (D-Calif.). Organizer Kani Xulam says the 221-day vigil—which drew attention to the jailing of Kurdish politician Leyla Zana via the erection of a 6-foot-by-8-foot replica of a Turkish prison cell—has accomplished its mission. “We don’t want to create any problems or cause any distractions,” says Xulam, noting increased security concerns in post-Sept. 11 D.C. As for the Sheridan Circle neighbors irritated by the cell and vigil, Xulam jokes, “They’re probably having a champagne party.” —Richard Byrne