Community Relations Service

CRS is here to help communities promote and encourage public safety during demonstrations and events.

CRS was there in Rapid River, ID in 1979 at an armed standoff between Nez Percé and state fish and game agents. Mediating a last-second redirection from violence, CRS facilitated dialogues that led to the establishment of a three-state institute on land jurisdiction. Photo: US DOE

When long-simmering tensions damage community cohesion, CRS offers structure for productive dialogue. Photo: DHS

Confidentiality builds trust. CRS’s confidential processes encourage people to be transparent when discussing their needs and to be open to exploring novel solutions.

CRS is here to help ensure community groups can express themselves while keeping themselves and their community safe. Event Marshal and Contingency Planning training programs educate community leaders about key elements of safety when planning public events. Photo: LOC

More than a quarter of hate crimes reported by the FBI in 2023 occurred in the home. Such crimes can shatter a community’s sense of security. CRS works with impacted communities to help restore their agency and plan for recovery and peace. Photo: FBI Media

CRS’s impartial processes create space for participants to find their own way to build peace. https://www.justice.gov/crs/our-work/mediation

12,355 hate crimes were reported by the FBI in 2023. Hate crimes can tear communities apart. CRS can provide a space for communities to bridge these gaps. Photo: FBI Media

Peacemaking begins with participation. When communities experience tensions, CRS works to identify and include all relevant stakeholders to develop sustainable approaches to peace.

As it celebrates countless American heroes, Black History Month honors leaders who highlighted and navigated tensions to foster community.

CRS is here to connect religious communities to resources to improve their security. Learn about CRS’s Protecting Places of Worship forum here: https://www.justice.gov/crs/our-work/facilitation/protecting-places-of-worship

In every element of our work, CRS strives to honor the legacy left by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., in his service to the vision of a beloved community. Photo: Library of Congress