By JASMINE FRANKLIN, SPECIAL TO SUN MEDIA —

Concerned parents and members of Edmonton’s Somali community gathered yesterday to create a plan for protecting their children in light of another slaying.

“The lack of knowledge on both parents and children’s parts is what is steering our youth in the wrong direction,” said Mohamednur Madowe, executive director of the Brotherhood Community Support Service Association.

The Brotherhood is a new, volunteer organization formed by members of the Somali community, offering workshops and programs for families.

“We’re here to support them in anyway they need,” Madowe said.

On April 26, Mohamed Farah Khalif died from a bullet wound to the stomach. His body was found in Hermitage Park.

Last week’s death marked the sixth murder within the northern Alberta Somali community in the past six months.

Madowe, and his partner Hussein Mohamad, said it’s time everyone worked together to put an end to the violence.

The Brotherhood is planning a workshop at the end of the month that will bring together RCMP, schools, and employers to educate young people about future opportunities.

Madowe said many parents work two jobs, so they don’t have time to be at home with young people who instead hang out with peers who are often involved in drugs or violence.

“Many fall behind school due to a number of issues, including language barriers,” he added. “Because of this, they drop out and have no idea where to turn.”.

The Brotherhood hopes to receive some government funding to help pay for the workshops and programs.

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