AKRON, Ohio — “This program is another step in ensuring that hate has no place here in our city.”
That’s the message from Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan as the city launches its new Safe Place Program, which is described as “a unique partnership with the business community that allows victims fleeing a threat to quickly and easily recognize where they can go for assistance.”
Businesses and organizations that wish to participate will place a decal at their entrances to let those in need know their location is a dedicated safe place for hate crime victims to receive help quickly.
“We are committed to the safety of all our residents and visitors and want to assure our community that hate crimes in any form will not be tolerated,” said Akron Police Chief Steve Mylett. “The Akron Police Department Safe Place decal is meant to convey inclusion and intersectionality with any and all individuals regardless of their race, political beliefs, nationality, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other differences. We are proud to serve our diverse and progressive city with this new program.”
How does a business sign up? Here's more information as provided by Akron officials...
Signing up to become a participant is easy, free, and open to all businesses and organizations within the Akron city limits. Simply contact the Akron Police Department Community Relations Unit at 330-375-2390 and fill out a Safe Place Application. An APD Safe Place representative will contact you and ensure that you agree to the terms of participation. Your decal and a brief training for your staff will be provided.
What is a business required to do for the program?
While the program is free and voluntary, it is important for businesses to educate their staff on their responsibilities:
- If a victim of any crime (especially a hate crime) enters your premises, call 911 immediately.
- Allow the victim to remain on your premises until the police arrive.
If the victim leaves prior to police arrival, call 911 to provide an update. As with any emergency situation, staff should use due care & caution when providing the victims of crime safe shelter, while being mindful of the safety of patrons, co-workers and compliance with existing company policies.
Akron police officers regularly undergo cultural competency training and new APD cadets get that same training in the Akron Police Academy, so they are able to assist hate crime victims in a way that respects their unique circumstances and identities.
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