WESTFIELD, NJ – The Westfield Police Department has announced its participation in the Safe Place Initiative, a program introduced to Union County by Union County Prosecutor William Daniel.
Originally developed by the Seattle Police Department in 2015 to combat LGBTQ+ bias incidents and hate crimes, the Safe Place Initiative has since expanded to encompass all types of hate and bias incidents, as well as student bullying.
Safe Place operates as a partnership between law enforcement, local businesses, and organizations. Its objective is to foster a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination and promote a shared commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all individuals.
The Westfield Police Department is urging local businesses and organizations to display the distinctive Safe Place shield, which designates their establishment as a secure location for victims of bias, harassment, discrimination, bullying, or hate crimes to seek refuge while they call 9-1-1 for assistance.
The Safe Place Initiative is symbolized by a rainbow-colored shield and has been adopted by over 300 law enforcement jurisdictions across the United States, Canada, and Europe.
Union County holds the distinction of being the first county worldwide to collectively implement the program, with all 25 law enforcement agencies within the county committing to participate.
Westfield Police Chief Christopher Battiloro expressed enthusiasm about joining Union County’s other law enforcement agencies in bringing the Safe Place Initiative to their community. Chief Battiloro emphasized the department’s hope that every Westfield business and organization would join them in making the initiative successful, thereby ensuring that residents and visitors feel safe and supported in Westfield at all times.
It should be noted that the Safe Place Initiative is not intended for residential use, and there is no cost for local businesses and organizations to participate. Additional information about the program can be found at www.wpdnj.org/safeplace.
