Domestic violence remains a critical issue in Washington, DC, prompting a districtwide initiative that leverages the combined efforts of law enforcement, clergy, and community organizations. On September 10, 2026, the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office hosted the launch of the 'kNOw DV' (Know Domestic Violence) campaign, in partnership with the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Third District's 'Cops and Clergy' program and the MPD Victim Services Branch, Criminal Investigations Division. The event underscored the importance of a collaborative approach to tackle domestic violence, which is a top priority for the city.
The 'kNOw DV' campaign aims to raise awareness and provide training to identify indicators of domestic violence and offer support to survivors. By combining awareness training to 'Know DV' with proactive steps, the campaign seeks to achieve 'No DV.' The gathering at the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including Interim Chief of Police Jeffery W. Carroll, who emphasized the urgency of addressing domestic violence. Presentations covered various facets of the issue, from the perspective of a DC pastor sharing a personal story to insights from a statistician from the DC Sentencing Commission and the director of the Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants. The president of The Magi Group also contributed, highlighting the need for special training seminars and workshops to help clergy spot early indicators and refer those affected to city resources.
The program concluded with short presentations from resource vendors, including the Court Services and Offenders Supervision Agency (CSOSA), the DC Sentencing Commission, the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, the Jewish Coalition Against Domestic Abuse, My Sister's Place DC, the Victim Services Branch, Volare DC, Volunteer Legal Advocates, and the Church of Scientology. Attendees were invited to visit resource tables to learn more about the tools available. Rev. Susan Taylor, Public Affairs Director of the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office, expressed gratitude for the partnership and optimism about the impact of the initiative: 'Our office was honored to host Chief Carroll and his team and assist in the launching of the Cops and Clergy domestic violence initiative. We were excited to see many faith leaders reaching out and scheduling workshops. With all of us working together using the tools we have, we will make a difference to help address domestic violence. We look forward to our continued partnership with the police, agencies and faith leaders.'
The Church of Scientology National Affairs Office represents the church in the nation's capital and works with many organizations to improve human rights, criminal justice reform, drug prevention education, and religious freedom domestically and internationally. This event exemplifies the church's commitment to community betterment and its support for initiatives that protect the vulnerable. The 'kNOw DV' campaign is a significant step toward reducing domestic violence in Washington, DC, by fostering collaboration between clergy, police, and agencies. It highlights the importance of a village approach, where every sector of society plays a role in identifying and addressing domestic violence. For more information on the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office, visit https://www.scientology.org.
