For Immediate Release
DHS Press Office
Contact: 202-282-8010
GAITHERSBURG, Md. — Today, Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson traveled to Gaithersburg, Md. to meet with the Montgomery County Executive’s Faith Community Working Group to discuss the Department’s ongoing efforts to safeguard local communities. Secretary Johnson also took part in a discussion to learn more about Montgomery County’s efforts and how multi-faith collaboration with the county government has led to greater public awareness about the community's role in protecting public safety.
During the discussion, Secretary Johnson addressed the participants’ concerns regarding efforts to keep local communities safe. Secretary Johnson also learned about the Montgomery County Model, a local, community-led effort to increase public awareness about the community’s role in ensuring the public’s safety through greater collaboration among county officials, local law enforcement, and faith-based organizations. Secretary Johnson highlighted the Department’s commitment to working with and empowering local communities and underscored the importance of community engagement to effectively protect communities, reiterating that homeland security begins with hometown security.
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