Knife Angel is backdrop to Perth seminar on violence

Perth, Scotland, was the host city for a seminar on knife crime and tackling violence, set against the backdrop of the Knife Angel statue. The event, which took place at the Perth Concert Hall, coincided with the arrival of the 27ft high statue made from 100,000 seized knives and bladed weapons. Known as the National Monument Against Violence and Aggression, the Knife Angel was created by the British Ironworks Centre and has been touring England and Wales since 2018. It is now displayed on King Edward Street, outside Perth Museum, until January.

The seminar brought together various speakers including representatives from charity Aid and Abet, Sheriff Kathrine Mackie, Donald Tumilowicz from Fearless, and Miruna Paduraru from Victim Support Scotland. The event aimed to address the issues surrounding knife crime and discuss measures to prevent individuals from carrying and using blades. Perth and Kinross councillor, Tom McEwan, emphasized the importance of continuing to work with communities to tackle knife crime despite the powerful impact of the Knife Angel statue.

Kerry Burgess, the mother of a knife crime victim, Cammy Rae, expressed her support for the Knife Angel and hoped it would draw attention from those carrying knives. Cammy Rae, aged 20, tragically lost his life after being stabbed in 2023, leading to his killer, Caleb Ferguson, receiving a life sentence. The seminar also involved Perth and Kinross school pupils, who will visit the Knife Angel to engage in projects addressing violence and knife crime.

The Perth seminar highlighted the need for ongoing efforts to combat knife crime and promote awareness of its impact on individuals and communities. The powerful symbolism of the Knife Angel serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of knife-related violence, inspiring actions to prevent such tragedies in the future.

In conclusion, the seminar in Perth, set against the backdrop of the Knife Angel statue, has brought attention to the pressing issue of knife crime and the importance of community efforts in tackling violence. The event served as a platform for meaningful discussions and initiatives to address the root causes of knife-related incidents and promote a safer environment for everyone. The symbolism of the Knife Angel continues to resonate, urging individuals to reflect on the impact of their actions and work towards a future free from violence and aggression.