Parade Gardens residents use sports, entertainment to foster peace

In a display of community resilience and unity, residents of Parade Gardens are leveraging sports and entertainment to dismantle the longstanding barriers created by gang feuds.

This latest peace initiative, a series of round-events, aims to cultivate a spirit of togetherness and harmony among the community members.

The initiative, spearheaded by the community itself, has garnered significant support from the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and Project STAR.

Deputy Superintendent of Police Eucal Francis, assigned to the Kingston Central Police Division, said these round-robin events are not only a means of promoting peace, but also an opportunity to engage residents in positive, communal activities.

He said the first round-robin was held in March on Fleet Street, and was a success.

“It makes no sense for you to say you have a peace initiative when persons are holding their corner and not venturing out. To get them to venture out, it gives them an opportunity to meet and greet, talk things over, and socialise a little bit, and the type of social cohesion we really want, the round-robin is affording us to do,” he said, commending the initiative.

The second round-robin was held in April on George Lane and Law Street, and that was also a tremendous success. Another two are being planned for Maiden Lane and Law Street later this month, and Foster Lane at a later date.

“When you study the landscape, two things that are very critical are sport, for example the football competitions that have been organised, and parties. People live for those things, so if you want to unite persons, you will have to embark on these types of activities,” he stated.

Francis also shared that a percentage of the proceeds from the round-robins has been used to assist the vulnerable in the communities, with care packages being prepared for the elderly and children in need of assistance.

Each event features a variety of sports and entertainment options, drawing participation from all age groups. Through friendly competitions and shared enjoyment, the community is finding common ground and rebuilding a trust that has been eroded by years of conflict.

Saffrey Brown, director of Project STAR, in commending the initiative, said, “The goal is to create a safe and inclusive environment where residents can come together, have fun, and support each other. These events are more than just sports and entertainment; they are about building a stronger, more united community.”

The JCF has been instrumental in ensuring the safety and smooth operation of these events. Their involvement underscores the importance of collaboration between law enforcement and community members in achieving lasting peace, Brown said.

Residents have responded enthusiastically to the initiative, noting that the round-robin events have brought a renewed sense of hope and camaraderie to Parade Gardens.

“It has also opened the eyes of a lot of the young people within the community to the fact that violence is not really the answer. So, they have realised that resolution and dialogue to resolve conflicts should be the approach,” said Andre Barnaby, a resident of a nearby community.

As the series of round-robin events continues, the community remains optimistic about the future.

“This initiative stands as a testament to the power of grassroots efforts in overcoming division and fostering peace,” said Brown.