Gangsterism

Gansterism was a huge problem in our communnity in the past.

Gansterism, it really almost damaged our community just looking back watching the our fathers and brothers lose their lives and so many injuries, some of them still have to live with those injures that happened in the past. But we have grown so much. There are so many good and encouraging changes that have taken place we have so many young couples getting married and others involving themselves with the community and so on. When i met people from other areas and tell them where i’am from they get so terrified but i always tell them our history and they understand then the terror wears off. (by: Tracey Norrian)

 

If you lived through the gang wars in Mariannridge – then you will never be afraid of Mariannridge. We were growing up with some the most violence acts taking place all around us. A weekend was characterised by the sounds of bushknives on the tar – screams and shrills from onlookers – insults and counter insults. I think that many people were hurt during this time – not only physically but also emotionally. Mothers lost their sons to death and mothers lost their sons to prisons. Some cases were never solved. Crimes went unpunished. I think many people still hold this pain. All the untold stories, unfinished business between families.

But through all of this – you will never find a close knit people like the people of  Mariannridge. In times of crisis we come together like bees to pollen. Loving and caring and sharing.

They say time heals. They say age makes us wiser. I know that we are moving forward and that we are overcoming the darkness of anger and pain. I know that Mariannridge will be free of  hurt and distruction. God bless all the beautiful people of our community. (Jenny B.)