“If you or someone around you experiences a violent crime during DC’s upcoming events, we want you to be aware of two resources available to you 24/7”

Photo by PoPville flickr user Erin

From the Network for Victim Recovery of DC:

“As we wish a peaceful and safe weekend for all in attendance, we believe it’s important to be prepared for the unexpected.

If you or someone around you experiences a violent crime during DC’s upcoming events, we want you to be aware of two resources available to you 24/7. The DC Victim Hotline provides free confidential, around-the-clock information and referrals for victims of ALL CRIME in the District of Columbia. The hotline number is 1-844-4HELPDC (844-443-5732) and can be reached by phone, text, or online chat.

Secondly, any victim of a sexual assault that happens in DC and is seeks a medical forensic exam can be accompanied at Washington Hospital Center by a professional advocate from the Network for Victim Recovery of DC (NVRDC). NVRDC is the sole organization providing this service in the District of Columbia and they respond to the hospital 24/7 during inauguration weekend and every other day of the year.

Survivors receive services regardless of their decision to report the crime to the DC Metropolitan Police Department and can also be accompanied during the reporting process, if requested. If you have questions about a forensic medical exam for a sexual assault in Washington, DC, an advocate can be reached any time by calling 800-641-4028.

The Women’s March on Washington lists non-violence as their first guiding principle. As the march’s website states, “[nonviolence] is a positive force confronting the forces of injustice”. Everyone at the Network for Victim Recovery of DC is standing with you on January 21st, 2017 and wishes you a safe and rewarding weekend.”