National Night Out festivities give Baltimore residents a chance to salute the city’s leaders

BALTIMORE – State and city leaders and law enforcement officers interacted with Baltimore residents at more than 40 National Night Out events Tuesday.

National Night Out was postponed this week after severe storms moved into Maryland on August 6.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott was in the audience for the National Night Out festivities.

“Each year, National Night Out is an opportunity for communities and public safety agencies to come together, strengthen relationships and recommit to building a better, safer Baltimore,” Scott said. “This work doesn’t stop after today – building these connections is an ongoing process that requires collaboration day in and day out. But these events are an important platform to build a better sense of community and togetherness, to foster engagement and cooperation. , and to pave the way for Baltimore, we all want to help build one where everyone feels safe and protected, regardless of race, ethnicity or zip code.”

National Night Out began as a nationwide campaign in 1984 with an effort to create better relations between law enforcement and elected officials with community residents.

“BPD is committed to creating a safer city in partnership and cooperation with the communities we serve,” said Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley. “The National Night Out tradition is vital as we work to build trust and celebrate our communities, and this year’s events are a great way to enjoy those partnerships and strengthen our bonds.”

The city established the Mayor’s Office for Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (MONSE) and the Comprehensive Violence Prevention Plan.

According to the mayor’s office, homicides are down 29 percent from last year, and nonfatal shootings are down 39 percent.

“Today is about listening to our neighbors, building bridges and strengthening ties with our communities,” said MONSE Director Stefanie Mavronis. “We know that together, through collaboration, mutual respect and compassion, we can build a Baltimore where everyone feels safe and protected.”