For Immediate Release
DHS Press Office
Contact: 202-282-8010
Newly released ad highlights athletes competing at last year’s championships and reminds student-athletes, employees, and fans to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to local law enforcement
WASHINGTON— The Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) “If You See Something, Say Something™” public awareness campaign and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) jointly released a new Public Service Announcement (PSA) and in-game message for the upcoming NCAA Winter and Spring Championships to remind fans to stay safe and alert as they cheer on their favorite teams.
“I thank the NCAA for partnering with DHS and helping us remind fans of the importance of staying vigilant while attending games. During this year’s championships, we want all participants to be sure to stay alert and keep an eye out for anything out of the ordinary,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson. “Homeland security is a shared responsibility, so while you’re rooting on your team, remember to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.”
“We recognize the valuable role each person can play in identifying and reporting potential threats, and we remain thankful to the Department of Homeland Security for the continued partnership with the NCAA through its public awareness campaign,” said NCAA Executive Vice President of Championships and Alliances Mark Lewis. “Safety at our championship events is of paramount importance, and this campaign helps strengthen our efforts to ensure the well-being and safety of student-athletes, fans and everyone who enjoys the games.”
This initiative brings the “If You See Something, Say Something™” message to student-athletes, employees, and fans at each of the NCAA Championships, including both preliminary round and final sites. The new PSA, which highlights athletes competing in last year’s championships across a variety of sports, encourages fans to support their local team and community by reporting any suspicious activity to local law enforcement. The PSA will play at each championship event that features a video board, and this year fans will see “If You See Something, Say Something™” messaging on display at all of the 90 NCAA Championships across 24 sports.
Since 2011, DHS has partnered with the NCAA to create public service announcements and digital awareness products through the “If You See Something, Say Something™” campaign.
The Department launched the “If You See Something, Say Something™” campaign nationally to raise awareness among businesses, communities, and the general public about how they can remain vigilant and play an active role in keeping the country safe. The campaign has grown to include partnerships with numerous sports teams and leagues, including with the National Football League, Major League Baseball, and NASCAR.
The “If You See Something, Say Something™” campaign was originally implemented by New York City’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority and is now licensed to DHS for a nationwide campaign.
For more information and to watch the new Public Service Announcement, visit www.dhs.gov.
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