In a city-wide effort to boost local commerce and ensure public safety during the holiday season, Mayor Muriel Bowser, in concert with MPD Chief Pamela A. Smith and DSLBD Director Rosemary Suggs-Evans, has urged Washingtonians to patronize local businesses. According to an announcement made by the Mayor's office, the District has seen a reduction in crime rates, and the integration of recruit officers into commercial areas is set to continue the trend.
A noteworthy decrease in violent and property crimes is at the forefront of the district's holiday narrative this year. "We saw lots of shoppers out last week and over the weekend supporting our local businesses, and we want to continue that support throughout the holiday season," Mayor Bowser stated. Chief Smith added, "As we enter one of the busiest seasons of the year, the Metropolitan Police Department is focused on ensuring our residents and visitors to the District of Columbia can enjoy all the city has to offer while also being safe." Efforts to quickly secure packages, the utilization of Amazon Lockers, and MPD's Safe Exchange Zones for online purchases were highlighted as part of the initiative to safeguard community members.
In an endeavor to highlight the symbiotic nature of small business and community, Stacey Price, co-founder of Shop Made in DC, expressed, "These businesses make our city more interesting, more colorful, but also, these are the people that are investing dollars back into the local community with storefronts, jobs, taxes, and donations to programs." The #iBuyDC Challenge, launched by DSLBD, has been designed to socialize support for local businesses, encouraging District residents to shop and share using the hashtag #iBuyDC.
Mayor Bowser's commitment to enhancing the local economy and ensuring a safe shopping environment is evident through these initiatives. "This holiday season, the best way to support our community is by shopping small and buying local," Director Suggs-Evans asserted, highlighting the #iBuyDC Challenge as a major component of such support. For further information on how to participate in the campaign, residents are directed to the DSLBD website. Meanwhile, tips remain crucial for a secure season—shop in well-lit areas, avoid carrying large sums of cash and remain vigilant of one’s surroundings.
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