"United we stand, divided we fall"

Story: Maureen Griffiths

A practical demonstration of this famous quote is planned on Saturday 15th March from 1-4pm by a united Pitsmoor/Burngreave Community and sympathizers in the form of a MARCH from Osgathorpe Park to the Town Hall.

Pitsmoor/Burngreave community is sick and tired of the rise in drugs and gun crime along with the preconceived growing negativity surrounding its community and young people.

The senseless killing of Jonathan Matondo, Ibrahim Ilyas and Younis Khan has given birth to strong community feelings in regards to reclaiming our community.

This was once a beautiful and caring community where people of all cultures and genders felt and experienced safety night and day. It was a place that was regarded for its genuine concern and respect for all people young and old irrespective of one’s origin. Life was valued and fought for. It was a place where councillors and MP valued our young people and made sure appropriate and adequate provisions were in place to safeguard future generations.

Has all been lost?

Pitsmoor/Burngreave has a lot of good, honest, hardworking, level-headed, young people who stand against drugs and crime. This needs to be recognised and applauded. These young people need to be recognised and encouraged to become mentors and champions for the vulnerable youth within our community.

Maybe this demonstration may help to rekindle hope. The birthplace of the forthcoming march developed as a result of local churches, agencies, various community groups and individuals coming together in the hope of identifying a positive outcome from the needless killings.

The organizers are appealing to all Pitsmoor/Burngreave communities, cultures, religious orders, schools, youth groups and sympathizers to come out and support this demonstration.

Anyone with creative skills or just willing to help is invited to “The Welcome Centre”, Christ Church Pitsmoor Road on Saturday 16th February 1-4pm to help make banners for the march. Refreshments will be provided.

Watch this space for more updates.

You may contact Ps Andrew Rashford-Hewitt for more information on tel: 0793 173 2490