Posted By Assistant Secretary Betsy Markey
Over the past year, I’ve had the exciting opportunity to introduce partnerships between the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and state and local governments in support of the “If You See Something, Say Something™” awareness campaign. Today is the fifth time that I have had the pleasure to personally announce a new partner in this important initiative.
This afternoon, I was in Madison, WI to join Governor Walker, Attorney General Van Hollen, Major General Dunbar and law enforcement and homeland security officials in announcing a new “If You See Something, Say Something™” partnership with the state of Wisconsin.
The “If You See Something, Say Something™” campaign encourages citizens to speak up if they see something that seems out of place – like an unattended bag – and gives individuals information about how to report suspicious activities. The Badger State will take a number of innovative steps to help deliver these important safety messages to its more than 5.7 million residents.
“If You See Something, Say Something™” messages will appear on digital billboards on major highways and thruways across the state, including I-94, WIS 57, and WIS 164, from Oshkosh to Westbend to Jefferson and a variety of other cities. Additionally, “If You See Something, Say Something™” campaign posters will be hung in a variety of venues around the state to engage a host of sectors and communities throughout Wisconsin. For example, in Madison, posters with photos of the state capitol will be on display, as well as posters with images of Lambeau Field in Green Bay. Pictures of Miller Park and Summerfest will also accompany these materials in Milwaukee.
With the help of the Milwaukee Police Department, the state’s two fusion centers are launching a new website, WiWatch.org, where additional information about the campaign is posted and where Wisconsinites can report suspicious activity. Later this year, Public Service Announcements on television and radio will also air in Wisconsin.
Secretary Napolitano often says that homeland security begins with hometown security – and partnerships like the one we are announcing today are integral to these efforts. DHS is proud to partner with state governments like Wisconsin, local governments and the private sector on this campaign. Together, we can encourage the identification and reporting of suspicious activity so we can keep communities across Wisconsin, and around the entire country, safe. So, while you’re driving, attending a sports game or shopping at your local store, remember: “If You See Something, Say Something™”.