Wentworth residents demand an end to gang violence with new campaign
A collective cry for peace
Darian Smith, a community leader in Wentworth, will lead the campaign
Image: Supplied
COMMUNITY leaders and residents from Wentworth, who have had enough of gang-related shootings, will launch a campaign today to demand an end to the violence.
The Wentworth Rise Against Violence campaign will be launched at the Women of Wentworth (WOW) Centre in Austerville.
“The event is born out of deep pain, frustration, and grief experienced by families who have lost loved ones to shootings, drugs, and ongoing violence," said Darian Smith, a community leader in Wentworth.
“This is a collective cry for peace, a public stand for life, and a commitment to action. It also comes from a growing demand by residents for accountability, collaboration, and visible change."
He said for too long, communities have stood divided while violence had stood united.
“Wentworth Rise Against Violence seeks to change that reality by creating a platform where all sectors speak with one voice, share one responsibility, and work toward one goal and that is a safer community for our children and future generations.
“The community of Wentworth will gather for a powerful, united stand against the growing crisis of violence that continues to claim lives, destroy families, and rob communities of safety and hope.
“The campaign will move beyond speeches into clear community action. Residents will be called to take part in community safety and violence-prevention initiatives, youth development and mentorship programmes, and community support structures.
“We will have ongoing dialogues between the community and law enforcement. The gathering aims to send a strong public message that violence will no longer be normalised, ignored, or accepted as part of daily life in Wentworth. The community is rising in unity, purpose, and determination to protect life, rather than in anger,” said Smith.
The event will bring together religious leaders, community activists, youth leaders, civil society, business leaders, and law enforcement.
Key speakers will include religious leaders calling for peace, healing, and moral leadership, and community activists speaking on the real impact of violence on families and neighbourhoods.
Youth leaders will give voice to the fears, pressures, and struggles faced by young people, and Wentworth police are expected to address crime realities, challenges in policing, and the critical role of community police cooperation.
“The programme will also include live performances, prayer, and symbolic acts of unity, creating space for reflection, healing, and renewed commitment. A special segment will honour the lives lost to violence, reminding all present that behind every statistic is a mother, a father, a child, a sibling, and a broken home,” Smith added.