Horror of Holocaust deflects kids from gun and gang crime

 Liverpool youngsters are learning about the Holocaust in order to turn the tide against gun, gang and knife crime.

Jigsaw Youth Squad is a group of 10-18 year olds established in 2005 to address local issues in North Liverpool. Many of them have been directly affected by gun and knife crime and some were on the verge of joining gangs. Liverpool Housing Trust (LHT), part of the Vicinity Group, has been working with the group to try and make some lasting changes. 

After watching a movie called ‘Freedom Writers’ where the main character inspires students to treat each other with respect by learning lessons from the Holocaust, Jeanette Green, community regeneration team leader decided to do something similar with Youth Squad. The project so far has involved:

• Working with the Liverpool Jewish Resource Centre to combat racism
• Visiting the Holocaust Centre in Nottingham
• Meeting with a survivor of the Holocaust

The group is also learning about other genocides and recently watched a video about the atrocities in Rwanda. It is hoped that by teaching the youngsters about the atrocities of genocide they will learn to respect life. As one scholar once wrote: “For genocide to happen, there must be certain preconditions. Foremost among them is a national culture that does not place a high value on human life.”

Other recent events have included:
• Candlelight vigil for the international remembrance ceremony marking the 15 year anniversary of the Rwandan genocide
• Trip to Poland to visit a concentration camp

Jeanette Green, LHT community regeneration team leader says: “By working with young people we are hoping to turn the tide against gun and gang culture helping them to become caring, socially responsible adults who can make a positive contribution to their community.”