D.C. Takes Part in National Night Out

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Tuesday marked the 26th Annual National Night Out across the country, and people all over America took part— including many here in the D.C. area.

Last year, more than 37 million people participated in the event, which is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, support local anti-crime programs, strengthen neighborhood spirit and partnerships with police. It's also aimed at sending a message to criminals to let them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

Neighborhoods all across the U.S. take part by holding block parties, cookouts, parades, youth programs, interactive events with police, and more.

"It's a great idea," said Angel Hueca, a D.C. resident. "It's good to see the kids here with the rest of the community."

Laura Wasserman was born and raised in D.C. She had no idea this event was happening in her neighborhood until now.

"I think it's a really good place to take advantage of and take advantage of the police force," said Wasserman.

City officials say they believe these kind of events bring them closer to the community.

"I think this is really about community policing-- engaging with the neighborhood so the neighborhood engages back, so we have really good cooperation in terms of solving crime," said D.C. Councilman Jim Graham.

Each year the event gets bigger. In 1984 when the program was introduced, only 400 communities in 23 states participated. Last year during National Night Out, people from more than 15,000 communities in all 50 states participated.

"I think anytime you can get the community together, you're going to have fun," said Tessa Solomon-Lane, a D.C. resident. "People will get to know each other. Whenever you can build community atmosphere, it's going to be better for everyone involved."

"We need to live together, work together, become harmonious and just help each other out," said Donald Dukes, Sr. of the D.C. Police Department.

To find out more information on National Night Out, follow this link.