Annual National Night Out

News From Senator Shirley L. Huntley
For Immediate Release: July 29, 2010
Contact: Ami Shah | shah@senate.state.ny.us | (518) 455-3531

Senator Huntley Encourages Participation in ‘National Night Out’

Tuesday, August 3rd is America’s Night Out Against Crime

In an effort to increase public awareness and encourage participation in local anticrime efforts, Senator Huntley (D-Jamaica) notes that Tuesday, August 3rd (between 7:00 pm and 10:00 pm) is National Night Out — “America’s Night Out Against Crime.” An event which is beneficial to all.

Last year, according to the organization's website, involved citizens, law enforcement agencies, civic groups, businesses, neighborhood organizations and local officials from over 15,000 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases worldwide held events.

National Night Out (NNO), a year-long community building campaign, is designed to:

• Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness;

• Generate support for, and participation in, local anti-crime programs

• Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships;

• Send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

The National Night Out campaign is more crucial than ever, especially taking into account the current economical climate of the city and the nation. According to the New York Times, violent crimes have been on the rise in New York City in comparison to this same time period, one year ago. There has been a 22 percent increase in homicides and a 14 percent increase in shootings. These statistics stress the need for our communities to band together in a working relationship with law enforcement to bring down this rise in crime rates, and once again, make our neighborhoods a safer environment for all.

As a long time resident of Queens and as a community activist, Senator Huntley recognizes the importance of crime prevention programs. She has been a long time supporter of NNO, and has attended every single NNO, dating as far back as the first NNO in her community. This year, Senator Huntley regrets that she is unable to attend her much supported NNO event due to the extraordinary circumstances in Albany which require her attendance. However, her representatives will be attending the event to show her support for the program, and for her community.

To reinforce her goal of eliminating crime off our streets, on Saturday, June 5th, 2010 she stood hand in hand with the members of her community and with Mothers Against Guns, MAG. MAG’s mission is to remove guns from the hands of children and young adults while educating them on alternative methods to resolve issues. Along with MAG, she has been a long time supporter of the Cash for Guns program. The more guns that are cashed in, the less that they are on the streets. Senator Huntley urges everyone to participate in this universal cause of reducing crime.

“While this is a national night of recognition, it is important to remember that every night should be a night dedicated to the safety of our neighborhoods and communities,” Senator Huntley said. “National Night Out is a necessary reminder that we all play a role in keeping the community safe.”

Ways of showing support for NNO include displaying outdoor lights or holding a small front porch vigil; large scale events may include block parties, parades, cook outs, organized flashlight walks and programs in which youth design shirts speaking out against crime. The senator noted that NNO has proven to be an effective way of raising awareness about local issues and promoting safety, neighborhood spirit and community cooperation with local law enforcement

To get involved visit www.nationaltownwatch.org to register for this year’s night out against crime and find more ideas of how to participate.