PRESS STATEMENT
February 22, 2024
Contact: Debra Freeman, [email protected], 757-452-1143
The City of Norfolk Installed the First Call Tower
Norfolk, VA. - In June, the Norfolk Redevelopment Housing Authority approved a pilot program to install emergency call towers in the St. Paul's area following persistent efforts from dedicated residents and Norfolk organizers who have tirelessly advocated for these call towers since the fall of 2022.
“I’m excited for a future of resident drafted, culturally appropriate solutions to community issues,” said Monét Johnson, lead organizer.
Today the city of Norfolk installed the first call tower in Calvert Square, and although there is still work to be done, we applaud this decision to take a small step towards a reduction in over policing in our city. Call towers will provide a level of security and safety by addressing poor lighting, the stigma of making emergency calls to police, and limited phone access.
“It’s been a lengthy battle, but this is a powerful step towards prioritizing community safety and protections from over policing. I look forward to The NRHA and the city’s future innovations for creating a better quality of life for my community and communities like mine,” said Zenobia Wilson, community leader.
We believe this action is positive, and look forward to continuing to work with the city to continue moving forward to create a safer community for all of us.
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New Virginia Majority builds power in working-class communities of color, in immigrant communities, among LGBTQ people, women, youth, and progressives across the Commonwealth. We organize for racial and economic justice through large-scale political education, mobilization, and advocacy around dozens of issues. We fight for a Virginia that is just, democratic, and environmentally sustainable. For more information, visit our website and follow us on Twitter and Facebook at @NewVAMajority.