Harlow Council is pleased to announce the arrival of the National Youth Anti-Violence Tour & Programme, featuring the renowned Knife Angel sculpture, to the heart of our town.
This powerful initiative, organised in collaboration with the Tommy Jones Project, aims to raise awareness about the devastating impact of knife crime and foster a united front against violence within our community.
From 1 September until 30 September 2023, Harlow’s iconic Playhouse Square will serve as the temporary home for The Knife Angel, offering residents and visitors a unique opportunity to engage with this symbol of peace and hope. To mark the beginning of this significant event, an opening ceremony will be held on 1 September from 6pm, with a memorable closing ceremony scheduled for 30 September from 6pm.
The Knife Angel is a 27-foot tall sculpture crafted entirely from confiscated knives, and stands as a poignant reminder of the lives lost and the damage caused by knife crime. As it graces Playhouse Square, this awe-inspiring artwork will serve as a catalyst for conversations, education, and positive change within our community.
Melanie Hopwood, Founder of the Tommy Jones Project, expressed her enthusiasm, saying:
“We are thrilled to bring The Knife Angel to Harlow, empowering our youth and raising awareness about the consequences of violence.
“As someone who has lost their son to the tragedy of knife crime, I am passionate and committed to spreading the message that The Knife Angel stands for – that violence is never the answer.
“Through this initiative, we strive to foster a community that rejects violence and embraces compassion and understanding.”
Cllr Stacy Seales, cabinet portfolio holder for community, echoed the sentiment, stating:
“Harlow Council is honoured to host The Knife Angel, an extraordinary symbol that highlights the devastating consequences of violence. Two of our priorities are to restore pride in Harlow and improve council services by ensuring the safety of our community. By bringing The Knife Angel to Playhouse Square, we are taking a significant step towards raising awareness about the impact of serious violence.
“We are working closely with Essex Police and other stakeholders to tackle the root causes of violence and create a secure environment for everyone in Harlow. Through events like The Knife Angel exhibition and the accompanying programs, we are fostering open conversations and engaging our residents in finding proactive solutions.
“Together with our community, we will build a stronger Harlow that rejects violence and embraces unity. We invite all residents and visitors to join us in this endeavour by visiting The Knife Angel and participating in the events and educational initiatives that will run alongside it.”
In addition to the exhibition, a comprehensive programme of events and educational initiatives will run alongside The Knife Angel. These activities will provide opportunities for residents of all ages to learn about the impacts of violence, explore proactive solutions, and engage in meaningful dialogue. To find out more about the schedule and how to get involved, please visit www.harlow.gov.uk/knife-angel.
Stay up to date with the latest updates and announcements about The Knife Angel and related events by following @HarlowCouncil and @HarlowPlayhouse on social media.
Join us as we come together to address the urgent issue of violence within our community. Let us make a resounding statement that Harlow stands united against violence and committed to nurturing a safe and harmonious environment for all.
