More than 100 members of law enforcement from South Carolina and surrounding states will gather in North Charleston on Thursday, November 21, for an all-day convening on hate crimes, domestic extremism, security best practices, and law enforcement relationships.
Included will be presentations on securing faith communities in times of crisis, workshops on hate crimes and domestic extremism, conversations with children of Holocaust survivors, a presentation of law enforcement and antisemitism, a case study around the 2023 Dollar General mass shooting in Jacksonville, Florida, as well as a panel discussion on how ordinances can be used as a tool by law enforcement in the fight against hate.
This conference, first launched last year, was inspired by the leadership of the late Charleston Police Chief Luther Reynolds. Reynolds believed passionately in the dignity of everyone and worked hard to combat hate and extremism, making his mark on Charleston and law enforcement. He also believed in the value of professional development and training to help public safety personnel best support their communities.
“The Charleston Police Department remains committed to combating hate and extremism, following the path Chief Reynolds laid before us,” said Charleston Police Chief Chito Walker. “Through collaboration and continuous training like this, we strengthen our ability to protect our communities and building trust while assuring that dignity and safety remain at the forefront of everything we do.”
This conference is generously supported by Anita Zucker and the Zucker family. It pulls together experts from ADL’s Center on Extremism, the Charleston Jewish Federation, the Secure Community Network and more. Participants will also hear from Lt. Adam Blinn of Duval County, Florida, who will give a presentation about the Dollar General shooting in Jacksonville in the summer of 2023.
“In the fight against hate in any community, a partnership with law enforcement is enormously critical,” said Eytan Davidson, ADL Southeast Regional Director. “This conference is a key piece in helping to raise the sort of awareness we need to keep our communities safer.”
“A core priority of our Charleston Jewish Federation is community security, and part of that work is helping to support our local law enforcement agencies with the resources they need to address antisemitism and all forms of hate,” said Judi Corsaro, CEO of Charleston Jewish Federation.
“This conference represents a critical opportunity to share knowledge and best-practice training, build partnerships, and deepen our strategic approach to protecting our communities from the unprecedented level of threats of hate and violence,” said SCN National Director & CEO Michael Masters. “By working together, we can create safer, more resilient communities that stand united in our efforts toward safety, security, and resiliency."
About ADL
ADL is the leading anti-hate organization in the world. Founded in 1913, its timeless mission is “to stop the defamation of the Jewish people and to secure justice and fair treatment to all.” Today, ADL continues to fight all forms of antisemitism and bias, using innovation and partnerships to drive impact. A global leader in combating antisemitism, countering extremism and battling bigotry wherever and whenever it happens, ADL works to protect democracy and ensure a just and inclusive society for all. Learn more a www.adl.org.
About Charleston Jewish Federation
Charleston Jewish Federation is a nonprofit organization that fosters a vibrant and inclusive
Jewish community in Charleston, South Carolina. Through strategic partnerships, initiatives, and
advocacy, we strive to create a safe and thriving environment for all members of our community. Learn more at www.jewishcharleston.org.
About Secure Community Network
The Secure Community Network®(SCN®), a nonprofit 501(c)(3), is the official safety and security organization of the Jewish community in North America. Founded in 2004, SCN works on behalf of over 50 national Jewish nonprofit organizations, 146 Federations, and over 300 independent communities as well as with other partners in the public, private, nonprofit, and academic sectors to ensure the safety, security, and resiliency of the Jewish people. Learn more at www.securecommunitynetwork.org.
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While media cannot attend the training, we can arrange interviews with organizing partners and leadership.
Media Release
Release Date: November 20, 2024
Media Contact: Sgt. C. Stinson