Editor’s note: Richmond Police say the timing of Saturday’s forum, and its press release Thursday was coincidental and not related to the events in Charleston, though such topics will be addressed. Also, the starting time is 9:30 a.m.
On the heels of the shooting at a historic black church in Charleston, South Carolina, last night, the Richmond Police are holding a safety and awareness forum Saturday. From this morning’s announcement:
Mosques, churches, synagogues and all places of worship should be havens from the chaos of life. Safety is paramount and adopting a few simple procedures can dramatically increase the security of these sanctuaries and help to protect the people within and the surrounding property.
The Richmond Police Department will be hosting a safety and awareness forum for religious gathering places. The forum will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 20. A variety of topics will be discussed, including general safety, preparing for an emergency and staffing for special events that will draw large crowds.
The forum is free, but registration is required to accommodate all attendees. Registration will take place on-site before the event from 9:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Early registration is also available online. Congregations are invited to send no more than four representatives.