As part of its continued engagement and countering violent extremism (CVE) efforts within diverse communities, CRCL recently developed a new cultural awareness training course, "Somali Cultural Training: Community, Culture, and Religion." The course was created to meet the specific needs of law enforcement to engage more effectively with Somali-American communities and develop more effective community policing strategies. In addition, the course provides insight on cultural dynamics within the Somali community and geopolitical issues, best practices for partnering with the community and “cultural do’s and don’ts” when interacting with all members of the community, including women and youth in particular.

Since July, CRCL representatives have delivered the new training to approximately 300 state and local law enforcement officers, DHS officials and other federal partners in San Diego, Seattle and Minneapolis. The training has been well-received by participants who have requested additional trainings in the future.

To request this and other CRCL community engagement trainings, email CommunityEngagement@hq.dhs.gov.