In Washington, DC, a collaborative effort is underway to tackle domestic violence, a districtwide top priority. The Church of Scientology National Affairs Office hosted a gathering of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), clergy, and community organizations to launch the 'kNOw DV' (Know Domestic Violence) campaign. This initiative, introduced by Mayor Muriel Bowser, seeks to reduce domestic violence by combining awareness training with actionable steps, turning 'Know DV' into 'No DV'.
The event, held at the Church's National Affairs Office, was part of the Third Police District's longstanding 'Cops and Clergy' program and the MPD's Victim Services Branch. Interim Chief of Police Jeffery W. Carroll delivered introductory remarks, underscoring the urgency of addressing domestic violence. Presentations followed from Officer Randy Rogers, MPD Third District Cops and Clergy Liaison Officer; a DC pastor who shared a personal story; a statistician from the DC Sentencing Commission; the director of the Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants; and the president of The Magi Group. Each speaker highlighted different facets of the issue and stressed the importance of specialized training for clergy to recognize early indicators and refer survivors to resources.
The program concluded with short presentations from resource vendors, including Court Services and Offenders Supervision Agency (CSOSA), DC Sentencing Commission, Foundation for a Drug-Free World, Jewish Coalition Against Domestic Abuse, The Magi Group, LLC, My Sister's Place DC, Victim Services Branch, Volare DC, Volunteer Legal Advocates, and the Church of Scientology. Attendees then networked over coffee and dessert while visiting resource tables to learn more.
Rev. Susan Taylor, Public Affairs Director of 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. We look forward to our continued partnership with the police, agencies and faith leaders."
The event emphasized that addressing domestic violence requires a village approach. By equipping clergy and community members with knowledge and resources, the 'kNOw DV' campaign aims to create a safer DC. For more information on the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office and its social betterment programs, visit https://www.scientology.org. The office works on human rights, criminal justice reform, drug prevention education, and religious freedom.
