In a collaborative effort to address the rise in domestic violence, the Washington, DC, Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and local clergy have joined forces to launch a new awareness campaign called 'kNOw DV' (Know Domestic Violence). The initiative, which aims to provide resources and training to identify indicators and help survivors, was unveiled at the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office in partnership with the Third Police District's 'Cops and Clergy' program and the MPD's Victim Services Branch.
The event featured Interim Chief of Police Jeffery W. Carroll, who underscored the urgency of the issue. Presentations covered various facets of domestic violence, including early warning signs and available resources. A DC pastor shared a personal story, and a statistician from the DC Sentencing Commission provided data. The director of the Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants and the president of The Magi Group also spoke, emphasizing the importance of training seminars for clergy to spot indicators and refer survivors to city resources.
Resource vendors included Court Services and Offenders Supervision Agency (CSOSA), Foundation for a Drug-Free World, Jewish Coalition Against Domestic Abuse, My Sister's Place DC, and Volunteer Legal Advocates, among others. Attendees were invited to visit resource tables and learn more about how these tools can help.
Rev. Susan Taylor, Public Affairs Director at the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office, said, 'Our office was honored to host Chief Carroll and his team and assist in the launching of the Cops and Clergy domestic violence initiative. We were excited to see many faith leaders reaching out and scheduling workshops. With all of us working together using the tools we have, we will make a difference to help address domestic violence.'
The campaign, part of Mayor's districtwide priority, combines awareness training to 'Know DV' so steps can be taken to handle it, leading to 'No DV.' The Church of Scientology National Affairs Office represents the church in the nation's capital and works with many organizations to improve human rights, criminal justice reform, drug prevention education, and religious freedom. For more information on the Church of Scientology, visit https://www.scientology.org.
