Castries Central MP Richard Frederick has praised the recent ‘Peace and Love’ initiative which aims to guide at-risk youth toward positive lifestyles and quell gang violence.
Last weekend’s initiative came on the heels of Saint Lucia’s record-breaking homicide numbers in 2024, which reached 77. According to the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, most of the victims were young men aged 18-30.
The alarming rise in violence has spurred officials to seek meaningful solutions to address the crisis.
Frederick explained that the ‘Peace and Love’ initiative was sparked by community elders who approached him for help in engaging troubled youth. Their collaboration began with conversations and led to a day of football and camaraderie last weekend, which brought out over 300 young people.
“Based on what is trending on social media, so far as bringing the youngsters together is concerned, we felt that there was a proliferation of activity that was not necessarily in the best interest of a society in relation to tranquillity and the prevalence of peace,” Frederick said. “Some men, considered elders, initiated the idea of bringing them together and called me to participate.”
He said the events were held in a peaceful and festive atmosphere, where conversations emphasised the value of making positive life choices.
A highlight of the day, the MP said, was the powerful moment when a former death row inmate shared his story.
“He explained to them that being incarcerated is not easy, far less knowing that any morning you might be called upon for the termination of your life. He put it in terms they understood, and many of them realised this is not the path they want to follow,” said Frederick, who is also Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister responsible for Housing and Local Government.
He said the young men expressed their willingness to turn their lives around, reflecting on their past choices and committing to a better future. Frederick commended their efforts, as well as the support of their families who are embracing the peace initiative.
“Most of these guys are good guys, loving guys; they just seek acceptance and often find themselves in groups with negative influences. But now, they want to change their lives and even help others do the same,” the Castries Central MP said.
He stressed the importance of sustaining the ‘Peace and Love’ initiative, saying it will require creativity and regular conversations with the youth to make it work.
“We’re working with them to understand what will keep them engaged. The end goal is to ensure that every one of these young men leads a productive life with legally generated income,” Frederick said.
Michael ‘Toka’ Phillips, spokesman of community advocacy group Strive, told St Lucia Times last week that the initiative had received financial support from Frederick. He revealed plans to obtain sponsorship from concerned individuals and business owners in the areas affected by gang activity.
He explained that similar initiatives in the past have failed to last because peace treaties did not receive sufficient private sector support and sponsorship, including individuals to teach life skills to gang members.
