United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Tennessee

10/31/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/31/2024 11:49

U.S. Attorney’s Office Hosts “Protecting Places of Worship” Forum to Enhance Safety and Support for Religious Communities

Press Release

U.S. Attorney's Office Hosts "Protecting Places of Worship" Forum to Enhance Safety and Support for Religious Communities

Thursday, October 31, 2024
For Immediate Release
U.S. Attorney's Office, Western District of Tennessee

On October 24, the U.S. Attorney's Office held a "Protecting Places of Worship" forum to address security concerns faced by religious communities in the current climate of increased threats. The forum is part of a U.S. Department of Justice Community Relations Service (CRS) program that focuses on safeguarding religious institutions from violence, discrimination, and hate-based incidents. Leaders from diverse faith communities, law enforcement, and federal agencies gathered to discuss collaborative strategies for enhancing security and promoting unity.

Community leaders and stakeholders gathered on October 24 to discuss collaborative strategies for enhancing security and promoting unity in faith communities.The PPOW forum included a panel discussion with faith and community leaders on assessing community safety and ways to prevent targeted violence.

Key speakers at the event underscored the importance of fostering resilient partnerships between law enforcement and religious communities. Discussions centered on best practices for threat assessment, active shooter response, and emergency preparedness. Additionally, representatives from CRS and the Department of Homeland Security provided insights into federal resources, such as grants, and other support mechanisms available to religious organizations.

In addition to security, the forum also addressed the need for greater understanding and respect among communities of different faiths. Religious leaders expressed concerns over rising incidents of hate crimes and emphasized the value of building trust with local authorities to ensure swift, effective responses to potential threats.

Representatives from the U.S. Attorney's Office reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the rights of all individuals to worship freely and safely. They highlighted the Office's proactive role in prosecuting hate crimes and supporting communities through educational initiatives, outreach, and collaboration with religious organizations.

This forum serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility to safeguard places of worship and promote inclusivity within communities. The U.S. Attorney's Office remains dedicated to working with community leaders and law enforcement to protect the freedoms that define our nation.

For more information on resources available to religious institutions, please visit our grant resources page.

Updated October 31, 2024