WASHINGTON — Police and faith leaders joined forces Friday morning to kick off a weekend of 'Faith and Blue' events.
The goal is to bring both groups together to jointly rebuild relationships with the community.
Founded by the group Movement Forward in 2020, cities across the country now host events to help build these bridges.
Friday, the group held a joint discussion at the National Law Enforcement Officers' Memorial.
With violent crime in DC up 40% from the same time last year, community members were eager to hear from Acting Police Chief Pamela Smith.
Smith has been a pastor for decades, so she said she plans to use both backgrounds in her new role.
“We must be the change that’s going to take place in our communities, because to whom much is given, much is required," Acting Chief Smith said. "The community has invested in us. That’s why we’re here, and they’re looking for a return on their investment. God bless you and God keep you.”
MPD 3rd District Commander James Boteler said his district recently started a Cops and Clergy group to engage with the community.
"As much as I like to wear this uniform, it does create a natural barrier with some folks in our city," Cmdr. Boteler said. "But I tell you, when I walk through community, and I've got a pastor, or rabbi and imam standing next to me, things change, the feeling changes, that sense of engagement changes. And that's really what this is about is creating non traditional partnerships, to allow us really to engage community in meaningful and impactful ways."
He said his goal is to forge a strong relationship with young people so they know they can rely on officers.
"Really do some impactful outreach and engagement and help the moms and the aunts and the grandmas that are raising some of these kids to really get at that root cause," he said.
As of Monday morning, violent crime is up 40% from the same time last year, according to DC Police data.
DC Police is hosting a variety of events throughout the weekend from faith walks to cooking demonstrations.
You can find more information here.