Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that demands a comprehensive, community-wide response. In Washington, DC, a new initiative is putting that principle into action by bringing together law enforcement, clergy, and social service agencies to tackle the problem head-on. The Church of Scientology National Affairs Office hosted the launch of the city's "kNOw DV" (Know Domestic Violence) campaign, partnering with the Metropolitan Police Department's (MPD) Third District "Cops and Clergy" program and the MPD Victim Services Branch, Criminal Investigations Division.
The event, held at the Church's National Affairs Office, featured Interim Chief of Police Jeffery W. Carroll, who delivered introductory remarks underscoring the urgency of addressing domestic violence. The kNOw DV campaign, a districtwide top priority rolled out by the mayor, aims to combine awareness training with actionable steps. The goal is to help participants "Know DV" so they can ultimately achieve "No DV."
Presentations covered multiple facets of domestic violence. Officer Randy Rogers, MPD Third District Cops and Clergy Liaison Officer, spoke about the program's work. A DC pastor shared a personal story, putting a human face on the issue. A statistician from the DC Sentencing Commission provided data, while the director of the Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants and the president of The Magi Group also addressed the gathering. Each speaker emphasized the importance of special training seminars and workshops designed to help clergy spot early indicators of domestic violence and refer those affected to the many resources available in the city.
Resource vendors also participated, offering information and support. These included the Court Services and Offenders Supervision Agency (CSOSA), DC Sentencing Commission, Foundation for a Drug-Free World, Jewish Coalition Against Domestic Abuse, The Magi Group, LLC, My Sister's Place DC, Victim Services Branch, Volare DC, Volunteer Legal Advocates, and the Church of Scientology. Attendees were invited to enjoy coffee and dessert while visiting resource tables to learn more about specific tools and how they can help.
Rev. Susan Taylor, Public Affairs Director of the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to host the event. "Our office was honored to host Chief Carroll and his team and assist in the launching of the Cops and Clergy domestic violence initiative," she said. "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 implications of this collaboration are significant. Domestic violence often remains hidden, with victims unsure where to turn. By equipping clergy—who are frequently trusted confidants—with the knowledge to recognize signs of abuse and connect survivors to resources, the initiative expands the safety net beyond traditional law enforcement. The kNOw DV campaign's dual focus on awareness and action reflects a growing understanding that ending domestic violence requires not just reactive measures but proactive education and community engagement.
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. Its role in hosting this event highlights the importance of cross-sector partnerships in addressing complex social issues. As the kNOw DV campaign moves forward, the collaboration between police, clergy, and community groups may serve as a model for other cities seeking to reduce domestic violence through education and collective action.
