Washington, D.C. is intensifying its efforts to combat domestic violence through a new districtwide initiative called 'kNOw DV' (Know Domestic Violence). The campaign, launched at the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office, is a collaboration between the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), local clergy, and community organizations. The goal is to raise awareness, provide training, and connect survivors with resources. The event highlighted the urgency of addressing domestic violence, which is a top priority for the city.
The launch event, hosted in partnership with the Third Police District's 'Cops and Clergy' program and the MPD's Victim Services Branch, featured Interim Chief of Police Jeffery W. Carroll, who delivered introductory remarks emphasizing the need for a collective approach. "It takes a whole village," said Chief Carroll, underscoring the importance of collaboration between law enforcement, faith leaders, and community agencies.
Presentations covered various facets of domestic violence, including early warning signs, available resources, and the role of clergy in intervention. Officer Randy Rogers, the MPD Third District Cops and Clergy Liaison Officer, spoke about the program's efforts to bridge gaps between police and faith communities. A DC pastor shared a personal story, illustrating the impact of domestic violence on families. Experts from the DC Sentencing Commission and the Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants provided data and outlined support services.
The 'kNOw DV' campaign aims to train clergy and community members to recognize indicators of domestic violence and refer survivors to resources. The mayor's office is rolling out the initiative as part of a broader strategy to reduce domestic violence across the district. The campaign's message, "Know DV" to achieve "No DV," stresses that awareness and education are critical to prevention.
Resource vendors at the event included the Court Services and Offenders Supervision Agency (CSOSA), the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, the Jewish Coalition Against Domestic Abuse, My Sister's Place DC, and others. Attendees were invited to visit resource tables and learn more about available tools. Rev. Susan Taylor, Public Affairs Director of the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office, expressed gratitude for the partnership: "We were honored to host Chief Carroll and his team and assist in launching this initiative. We look forward to continued collaboration with police, agencies, and faith leaders to make a difference."
The Church of Scientology National Affairs Office works on human rights, criminal justice reform, drug prevention, and religious freedom. For more information on the Church of Scientology, visit https://www.scientology.org. To learn about the MPD's Victim Services Branch, visit https://mpdc.dc.gov.
This initiative matters because domestic violence affects countless individuals and families, and a coordinated community response can save lives. By equipping clergy and community members with the tools to identify and address domestic violence, Washington, D.C. is taking a significant step toward reducing incidents and supporting survivors. The 'kNOw DV' campaign serves as a model for other cities, demonstrating the power of partnership between law enforcement, faith-based organizations, and social services.
