Bermuda Gangs: ‘Saving Our Sons’ Conference
Sandys 360 is planning a conference to be held on Friday, 1st November, that is designed to attract all facets of the community to discuss the rise in violence in the community.
A spokesperson said, “The conference organizers accept that the issue is a multifaceted one, with no quick fixes, nor simple or easy solutions. However, we believe that we have no other choice, but to try to help make a difference by contributing to the discussions, and help to find solutions.
“Speakers, workshops, dialogue and strategy sessions will be utilized to assess the identified issues, examine causes, explore collective potential solutions, and address possible prevention strategies etc.
“The conference is designed to be merely a first step in drawing together parents, teachers, professional organizations, government workers, and community stakeholders, who will have an opportunity to collectively determine causes, possible interventions, early prevention strategies, follow-up plans, on-going dialog and preparation of reports and recommendations etc.
“Using Ebony Magazine’s recent series on Saving Our Sons, provides an opportunity for Bermuda to have a similar conversation. We must begin to come to terms with the Island’s Gang issue, and the numerous killings of young men, by young men, in recent years.
“Many believe that this sad, concerning issue, needs to become ’ a call to action’ for parents, educators, legislators, civil servants, Church and community members, corporate and business leaders, and all responsible citizens. We must begin to engage in discussions and strategies to help ensure that our country remains a safe and healthy environment.
Dr. Bassett, Sandys 360 Centre Managing Director states, “Bermuda’s ‘Gang’ issue cannot be ignored, nor can it be addressed solely by the government, the police, courts or through the criminal justice system generally. A united effort by the entire community is required to help address this scourge on our island community!
“Should the ’Gang’ problem continue to expand, it will have an extremely negative impact on every aspect of life in the country, potentially destroying the quality of life that we all enjoy.”
For more information, contact Sandys 360 at info@sandys360.bm or call 234-6195. Tickets are available for purchase for $35 from Sandys 360, Caesar’s Pharmacy, The Money Shop Locations and Robertson’s Drug Store in St. George’s Square.
