On the day of observation for Human Rights Day last week, Bruinchild Media and the team behind Fountain of Life Prison Ministry organised a peaceful march through the streets of Factreton.
The march was led by Franklyn Cupido, the founder of Fountain Life Prison Ministry, along with former gang members dressed in orange prison jumpsuits with chains around their hands and feet.
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According to the People’s Post, the march began at the intersection of Sunderland and Lugmag Avenues and ended at Glider Crescent. Glider Crescent Park hosted the official programme.
Cupido pointed out that the chains represented drug addiction and gangsterism.
‘This initiative is to show people who are doing drugs and those involved in gangsterism or suffering from gender-based violence (GBV) that there is a way out,’ said Cupido. ‘And we are testaments that you can recover. There is a life after drugs and gangsterism. We want to show them proof that there is hope for them.’
The programme includes performances by local artists, spiritual dancing and testimonies from former drug addicts and gangsters.
Fountain of Life Prison Ministry founder Franklyn Cupido says the ministry is made up of ex-gang members, drug addicts and rape survivors.
Their mission is to spread a message of hope throughout communities and to show the youth that there is an alternative to drugs.
Fountain of Life Prison Ministry also works within prisons, sharing testimonies about their own experiences with gangsterism, addiction and eventual recovery.
‘We try to create awareness among the young people because most young people do not have role models. We want to warn children of the dangers of getting involved in gangsterism and drugs, and we hope that our testimonies will motivate them to make better decisions,’ explained Cupido.
According to the People’s Post, representatives from the provincial departments of cultural affairs, sports and social development were also present to provide people with useful information, such as where and how to access rehabilitation centres.
According to Cupido, various communities in the city with high levels of drugs, alcohol and gangsterism have been selected.
He added that the organisation is facing a shortage of resources and is constantly seeking donations. He urges individuals and groups to step forward and contribute to the cause.
Fountain of Life Prison Ministry is seeking support from individuals and local communities to participate in and potentially sponsor upcoming events.
He urged the local government to get involved and expressed his desire to establish connections with churches in the communities where the outreach programmes are implemented.
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Picture: Matthew Little / Litt_Visuals