Foundation steps up fight against gun violence

Amid a worrying rise in violent crime, the Tyrese Caesar Foundation Against Gun Violence is intensifying its efforts to promote peace across Barbados.

On Saturday, the organisation hosted its third annual 5K Walk and Run under the theme Path to Peace.

The event, which began at the Barbados Legion, Garrison, St Michael, brought together walkers and support vehicles bearing messages of peace as they moved in solidarity through the streets.

Organiser Jacqueline Caesar, mother of the late Tyrese Caesar, expressed satisfaction with the turnout.

“We are pleased with the support to spread awareness and get the message out there across communities at a time where we have seen 20 homicides in approximately six months,” she said.

The group visited communities in Brittons Hill, where participants distributed informational materials.

Explaining the values behind Path to Peace, Caesar said, “We are looking at love; we are asking people to forgive their wrongdoings; we are asking persons to adopt prayer and biblical principles; we are asking them to use conflict resolution skills and try to resolve issues as opposed to turning to violence.”

She said institutions, schools, and special interest groups that cater to children are well positioned to influence young lives.

Turning to national policy, Caesar called for legal reform.

“Legislation surrounding bail and remand needs to be reviewed, and we need more resources in our court system to expedite matters. A separation of crimes of different levels should see a fast track for many homicide cases.”

Power in the Blood Assembly had one of the largest contingents in the walk.

Among the largest groups participating in the walk was the Power in the Blood Assembly. Church leader Reverend Dr Eric Peters shared his thoughts on the Foundation’s work.

“I have had the opportunity to walk with them through this entire ordeal from the moment of the passing of Tyrese. I was able to provide spiritual support and also see them and their strength and selflessness; how they have been able to use the hand that they have been dealt, which was significant grief, and have been able to use this to spread the message,” he said.

Proceeds from the event support the Foundation’s two youth-based programmes and assist in providing vouchers to 20 families.

A planning session is expected in the coming weeks to develop new initiatives aimed at deepening the foundation’s impact within communities. (STT)