A view of federal hill & the inner harbor, in baltimore, maryland — A view of Federal Hill & the Inner Harbor, in Baltimore, Maryland

BALTIMORE, MD – Businesses in Baltimore County are embracing the county’s Safe Space Initiative, with man businesses eager to take part in the program. The program identifies its location as a safe haven for victims of anti LGBTQ+ signs by posting a decal on the front door.

“To further the Baltimore County Police Department’s commitment to the safety and welfare of all Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, and Asexual (LGBTQIA+) residents and visitors, BCoPD is launching a Safe Space Initiative,” the BCPD said in a statement today. “Under the program, community members, businesses, schools, and organizations can visibly display a distinguishable “Safe Space” decal. The posted and easily identifiable signage will assure any victim of an LGBTQIA+ biased hate crime that the location is a safe space for someone to seek help as police are contacted.”

The initiative is similar to ones operating successfully nationwide in the wake of crime against members of the LGBTQ community, including a recent shooting in a Colorado gay bar.

REGISTER YOUR ESTABLISHMENT AS A SAFE SPACE

Safe Space decals are provided free of charge to anyone requesting to display one at their establishment. This symbol carries important responsibilities that will greatly assist in protecting LGBTQIA+ victims of crime. LGBTQIA+ victims will recognize that the Safe Space symbol indicates your business or organization is willing to assist them.

“The Baltimore County Police Department is also proud to announce Detective Jimmy Waites as the first LGBTQIA+ Liaison, a critical position that’s been created to reach and better serve the LGBTQIA+ community in Baltimore County,” the agency said. “Prior to joining BCoPD, Detective Waites served 10 years in the United States Navy. He has more than 18 years of service with BCoPD. He began his career in our Wilkens Precinct and has also worked in CACU and Internal Affairs. Married to his husband Daniel, Detective Waites’ personal experience combined with his training and background make him an incredible resource to our members and the LGBTQIA+ community in Baltimore County.”

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Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital newsroom providing original reporting on New Jersey, national news, government, public policy, public safety, courts, and community affairs.

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