An antiracism charity has commended the Government for taking a “significant step forward” to tackle gang violence.

Citizen’s Uprooting Racism in Bermuda said the collaborative approach aligns with its longstanding advocacy as evidenced in a 2011 submission the group made to a joint select committee on violent crime and gun violence.

It explained: “For over a decade, Curb has consistently highlighted the inextricable link between systemic racism, socio-economic disparities, and the disproportionate involvement of young Black men in gang activity.”

It said the 2011 document detailed how historical injustices, such as the legacy of enslavement and systemic discrimination, created a cycle of disadvantage that fuelled violence.

The charity added: “We urged the Government to address these root causes through comprehensive strategies, including investments in education, community development and economic empowerment initiatives.

“The Government's commitment to fostering partnerships with community organisations, law enforcement and social services is a direct response to these concerns.”

Last week, the Government said its new approach to the war on crime focused on “redemption over punishment” and offered ways for offenders “to integrate into society without stigma”.

Michael Weeks, the Minister of National Security, said the “comprehensive plan” came from a series of meetings and workshops that involved a host of anti-crime agencies and community groups in recent months.

Mr Weeks tabled the National Violence Reduction Strategy policy document in the House of Assembly on Friday.

Curb said it was encouraged by the Government’s commitment to focus on rehabilitation and community support.

The charity noted: “The recognition that effective solutions must be inclusive and informed by the lived experiences of those most affected is a crucial step towards healing our community.”

It was pleased to see “the Government's apparent recognition of the need to tackle systemic racism head-on”.

Curb added: “Our previous work detailed how systemic racism has undermined the Black community’s economic wellbeing, contributing to a sense of hopelessness and fuelling cycles of violence.”

The charity urged the Government to ensure its collaborative approach is genuinely inclusive and addressed longstanding inequalities effectively, as Curb proposed in 2011.

A Black Economic Empowerment Bill and a government-supported Truth and Reconciliation process were among Curb’s recommendations.

The charity said it remains committed to working with the Government and other stakeholders to make sure that Bermuda fosters a safe and equitable environment for all its citizens.

It added: “We look forward to actively participating in the implementation of these vital initiatives and working towards a truly just and thriving Bermuda.”

Mr Weeks said on Friday that the National Violence Reduction Strategy was a “call to action” that outlines a “comprehensive, multifaceted approach to prevention, intervention and rehabilitation”.

He told MPs: “By recognising the root causes of violence — whether they be economic hardship, lack of opportunity, social alienation, or generational trauma — we aim to create lasting change.

“It emphasises the need to empower our youth, to protect the most vulnerable among us, and to ensure that those who commit acts of violence are held accountable, while also being given pathways to rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

“This strategy is about hope, healing and the restoration of our communities.”