9/6/04
An Afro-Brazilian art form, which incorporates music, dance and theatre, is the latest weapon in the fight against crime and anti-social behaviour being backed by the State Government.
'Capoeira', as this exotic art form is known, will be the basis of a program receiving more than $17,000 from the Office of Crime Prevention to boost self-esteem among young people in Perth's northern suburbs.
Community Safety Minister Michelle Roberts announced the grant to the Western Australian Capoeira Foundation today and applauded them for their innovative work with young people at risk in the suburbs of Koondoola, Girrawheen and Balga.
At the announcement the Minister witnessed the 'Batacuda' - a traditional Brazilian drumming sequence and a martial arts demonstration, which was performed by young people from the foundation.
"This outstanding program will help to foster racial harmony, reinforce family and community values and reduce the incidence of crime and anti-social behaviour in the community," she said.
"It is very pleasing to see that young children are being given the opportunity to experience new cultures and engage in sporting and art activities which will improve life skills and boost physical health - all of which will have a positive impact in the local community.
"Programs like this show the State Government can work with community groups, local government, schools and the community to provide positive support for young children to reduce the fear of crime and improve community safety."
Local member for Girrawheen Margaret Quirk said the Capoeira Foundation had a strong track record in developing positive programs to reduce crime in Koondoola, Girrawheen and Balga areas.
Ms Quirk said the program would provide children aged 6-14 with the opportunity to participate in art, music and sporting activities and direct them away from criminal activity.
"A recent study by the City of Stirling - Balga Westminister Cultural Planning Report -has shown that social support programs such as Capoeira had improved the well-being of community members and had led to reduced crime and improved safety in the local community," she said.
Mrs Roberts said the Capoeira program would run weekly workshops enabling young children at risk to take part in workshops teaching art, music, singing, drama, history and philosophy and a range of other positive activities.
Minister's office: 9213 6600
