Hoyer Recognizes Law Enforcement, Communities on National Night Out

FIFTH DISTRICT, MD – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) applauded members of the community who participated in last night's "28th Annual National Night Out," an event which brings together residents, law enforcement personnel, civic groups, businesses, neighborhood organizations and local officials, to highlight their successful efforts to make their communities safe places to live.

"Throughout its 28 years, National Night Out has experienced great growth and developed a strong following, both around the nation and here in the Fifth Congressional District," stated Congressman Hoyer. "I am thrilled that so many members of our community came out tonight to support the people and efforts that keep us all safe, and I applaud all those who organized tonight's festivities.  With communities facing budget cuts that impact our local law enforcement, it is increasingly important that we all work together to advance neighborhood communication and involvement. If a change within a community needs to occur, community members should be able to talk to each other and to work together towards a common goal. We must continue working beyond this one night to take an active interest in making our communities better and safer places to live."

National Night Out is a unique crime/drug prevention event sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW).  National Night Out is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime programs; strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and send a strong message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

Last year's National Night Out campaign 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. In all, over 37 million people participated in National Night Out 2010.