Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety
Press Release
For Immediate Release: June 4, 2023
Issued by: J.P. Pritchard, Community Engagement Liaison
[email protected] , 707 584-2691
It is with great pride that the Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety launches the Safe Space anti-hate campaign in our community this month. Mirroring the first Safe Space program, which originated in Seattle in 2015 by a police officer who was a part of the LGBTQIA+ community, the Rohnert Park DPS model replicates the exact participation requirements and offers a free decal.
Businesses, schools, places of worship, and not-for-profit organizations are encouraged to register for the Safe Space program and agree to provide a location for anyone who feels threatened or is a victim of a hate incident to enter their premises and call the police immediately.
By displaying the free Safe Space decal for the public to see, the organizations that register agree to protect individuals by:
- Allowing victims to enter and remain at their premises until the Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety arrives.
- Calling or assisting victims in contacting 9-1-1 immediately to report hate crimes or harassment.
- Committing to instruct all employees or volunteers to assist victims and witnesses in this protocol if they enter the premises for help.
- Reporting all details, surveillance footage, and any evidence available to the authorities so that apprehension and prosecution can be made on behalf of the victim.
Rohnert Park DPS and City departments have been unified in wanting to expand existing safety programs to build a greater sense of representation for our diverse communities.
“As the City Manager, my duty is to make certain that our communities have access to the most comprehensive resources and programs to lead thriving lives. Their safety and welfare are at the forefront of our mission. The Safe Space anti-hate program is just one initiative that we can implement in Rohnert Park that not only symbolizes that our city will not tolerate violence of this kind but also puts this principle into tangible action by protecting our people and holding the person who perpetrates the action accountable. -
Rohnert Park City Manager- Marcela Piedra
Moreover, Rohnert Park DPS and the City Council have been collaborating to meet the nine pillars for police accountability and community relations. A crucial aspect of meeting these objectives is achieved through partnering with the private and public sectors in safety problem-solving and methods.
“As Mayor of Rohnert Park, I take the safety of our marginalized communities seriously. Having an anti-hate campaign, such as the Safe Space program in our city, allows for our government, public, private, and not-for-profit entities to work together to prevent biased and hate-related victimization. The important partnership between all parties makes for a safer, more unified city that protects all who live within our neighborhoods.”
-Mayor of Rohnert Park, Samantha Rodriguez
Over 300 first responder agencies across the United States have implemented a Safe Space program to ensure that hate crimes are thoroughly reported and responded to by authorities with respect and equity. Rohnert Park DPS is proud to be added to the list of agencies proactively fighting against biased and hate crimes.
" Though we wish no one ever experienced hate, we understand hate exists and is experienced by many people daily. This collaborative partnership between the Safe Space Program, Rohnert Park community businesses and institutions, and the Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety will provide safe places to enter for anyone who experiences any form of hate. We are grateful to live and work in a city that embraces diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging to make our city and the world a better place for everyone."
Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety – Deputy Chief Kevin Kilgore
Leading with integrity, transparency, and absolute community trust in mind, Director of Public Safety Tim Mattos has spent many hours reaching out to stakeholders for valuable feedback on how we can make sure the Safe Space anti-hate program serves the needs of our Rohnert Park communities. This collaboration has been extended to our City Council, Cotati-Rohnert Park School District, the Community Round Table (a group comprised to advise on many matters, including diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging as it relates to the safety of marginalized groups), and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
“There is no place in our community for bias, intolerance, or hate. As the Director of Public Safety, I am honored to have the opportunity to bring the Safe Space anti-hate program to those who live, work, or visit our great city.”
Chief - Tim Mattos, Director of Public Safety
City stakeholders interested in registering for the program can either request a brochure and decal in person at the Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety (500 City Center Drive), or through our online registry found on the City of Rohnert Park Public Safety website, which has multiple language translation options.
https://www.rpcity.org/city_hall/departments/public_safety/safe_space
