Gregory

"I know people who join gangs because they think being part of a crew will keep them safe. That just leads to violence and negativity."

I have known four people who have died from gun violence. When I was younger, shootings made me feel scared to even leave my apartment in the Redfern Houses. Home was one of the only places I felt safe. I went straight home after school and never wanted to play outside. Then one of my best friends was shot at while I was visiting his house. That rattled me. I know other young people who join gangs because they think being part of a crew will keep them safe. But that leads them on a path to negativity - to violence, which leads to retaliation and more violence and on and on. The stuff we’re doing here can really help. If people look at me and say “hey – he’s just like me. He’s cool, not affiliated with gangs or anything like that,” maybe they’ll see they can follow my example. The PLC has taught me that the best way to fight negativity is with positivity. If we keep talking – keep spreading positivity – eventually we will get what we want, which is positive change in our community and an end to the violence.