The Austin Police Department has joined more than 200 other groups across the nation to launch a program called ‘Safe Place,’ which aims to protect people from hate crimes. Chief Brian Manley said Austin businesses will be given a rainbow sticker for their building to let LGBT people know it’s a safe haven if they’re being harassed, a person can then go to that business and stay there until police arrive. The business will be tasked with calling 911 and offering comfort. Chief Manley said it’s also about building up trust in police.
APD joins about 200 other departments and groups across the nation in rolling out this new program.
Safe Place originated in Seattle, WA, by a 30 year vet of the Seattle Police Department, Officer Jim Ritter. He noticed a strain in the relationship between the LGBTQ community and the Seattle Police and wanted to do something about it. Going back to 70’s, Ritter remembered a time when he saw a symbol of a yellow hand in the windows of residents to symbolize a safe place for children to run to if they felt in danger.
If you have questions or have an business interested in this you will have to register online; http://www.austintexas.gov/APD-safeplace
(Photo: APD)
