“Protecting Places of Worship Forum' to be held in Memphis on October 24, 2024

Press Release

Public Invited to Learn Strategies for Protecting Faith-Based Institutions from Hate Crimes

Memphis, TN - Faith-based leaders, law enforcement, and community members will gather on Thursday, October 24, 2024 for the Protecting Places of Worship Forum in Memphis, Tennessee. Hosted by the U.S. Department of Justice's Community Relations Service (CRS) and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Tennessee, this vital forum will address the growing concern over hate crimes targeting places of worship.

What: Protecting Places of Worship Forum

When: Thursday, October 24, 2024, 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM CT

Where: FedEx Event Center at Shelby Farms Park - 415 Great View Dr. E. - Cordova, TN 38018

Why Attend:

As the frequency of hate crimes and violent threats against religious institutions increases, this forum offers an essential opportunity for faith-based leaders, security personnel, and community members to learn how to protect places of worship. Participants will receive expert advice on federal and state hate crime laws, as well as tools and resources for assessing safety and preventing violence. Key highlights of the event include:

• Overview of Hate Crimes Laws: Learn about the latest federal and state protections.
• Active Shooter Training: Prepare for emergency situations with practical insights from law enforcement.
• Best Practices for Prevention: Explore strategies to safeguard your congregation from threats and ensure the safety of your community.

Speakers and Partners:

Experts from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Shelby County Sheriff's Department, Memphis Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), and other local and federal agencies will lead sessions. This forum is also supported by the Governor's Office, the City of Memphis, and several community organizations, including the Memphis Baptist Ministerial Alliance and the National Black Prosecutors Association.

How to Register: Attendance is free, but registration is required. Visit the registration link to secure your spot.

Contact Information:

For more information about this forum and how you can participate, please contact Cherri Green in the U.S. Attorney's Office at [email protected].

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This forum serves as an essential platform for protecting vulnerable spaces and ensuring that places of worship remain safe, inclusive environments for all. Don't miss this important opportunity to engage with experts and strengthen the security of your faith community.

Updated October 16, 2024