Peace reigns in Drewsland
Residents adamant that the community is open to all
FOR YEARS, the community of Drewsland in West Central St Andrew was considered a no-go area for many Jamaicans because of its reputation for sporadic outbreaks of violent crimes.
But now, residents of the community, particularly those in the section of Davidson Avenue known as ‘Roomey’s Corner’, say that Drewsland is one of the most peaceful in the Kingston 20 area, insisting that the violence in nearby communities such as Waterhouse does not disturb their long-standing peace.
“When certain surrounding communities dead by 6 p.m., we can deh on our ends all 10-11 o’clock a night a play domino because the war and the violence just a happen around we. Drewsland don’t take part,” declared Jason Dawson, who was one of several residents who participated in the latest Gleaner/RISE Life Management On the Corner with Unattached Youths forum in Drewsland.
Dawson was adamant that the community is safe for not only persons who live there, but for those who visit as well.
“Here in Drewsland, we have a clinic, we have a primary school, and we have the football field, and these attract a lot of people from outside the community on a daily basis, and we welcome them, we look out for them. Them safe in whatever business them a transact in Drewsland,” he added.
LOCAL YOUTHS NEED A PLATFORM
This was endorsed by long-time Drewsland resident ‘Ozzie’, who told the forum that the peace in the community was comparable to any community in the Corporate Area.
“Drewsland is one of the most peaceful places around, and we want the community to be recognised for this. We want people to know that they can come and go any time without any fear of harm or danger. You can come around we who play domino and everything good,” said Ozzie.
He added that the only shortfall is that the youth need a platform to showcase and monetise their talent.
One of these talented Drewsland youngsters is an upcoming DJ who goes by the name ‘OWBG’.
“I born here so, and I never yet leave for a month,” said OWBG.
“No care what a gwan in the surrounding communities, we don’t get involved. We hold our own in Drewsland. Anybody can come in any day of the week, at any hour, and no one troubling you. A man prefer help you and beg you after. A so ’round ya so stay – peaceful and nice,” added OWBG.