Conquer the Night
August 6: National Night Out Events Strengthens Communities
On the first Tuesday in August each year, National Night Out – the community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie – is observed.
Credit: Prince George’s County Parks and Recreation
The idea is that the best way to build a safer community is to know your neighbors and your surroundings has blossomed into the annual National Night Out, a triumph over a culture that isolates us from each other and allows us to rediscover our own communities.
Introduced in 1984 by Matt Peskin, National Night Out reached 2.5 million neighbors and 400 communities in 23 states in its inaugural year.
Thirty-six years later, 38 million neighbors in 16,000 communities participate.
On August 6, communities will gather together to meet and greet, enjoy each other’s company, play games, have cookouts, watch concerts or movies, and learn about safety and crime reduction from local police.
Credit: greenbeltmd.gov
In Prince George’s County, the typical great outdoor event could mean a great indoor event as civic groups and organizations open doors to their community centers and other spaces to welcome the community.
Whether you enjoy events outdoors or indoor, the important thing to walk away with on August 6 is that standing together, communities can grow stronger.
Visit this site for a listing of National Night Out events in your community.
