:ANNAPOLIS, MD Oct 22 -
Lieutenant Governor Aruna K. Miller will deliver closing remarks at the Interrupting Violence Together Interfaith Solutions Forum on Thursday, November 14, 2024.

Maryland is the most diverse state in the region and is the proud home to the most religiously diverse county in the nation.

The forum will feature voices from key partners like Healing City Baltimore, working to eliminate hate and support vulnerable communities.

“As Chair of the Governor’s Interfaith Council, I’ve witnessed how fellowship and unity can illuminate the path to a stronger, more connected Maryland,” said Lt. Gov. Aruna K. Miller. “In times when division feels overwhelming, our shared values have the power to heal, inspire, and guide us toward a Maryland rooted in peace, compassion, and empathy.”

“Faith partners play a vital role in helping people live better lives. They are also critical partners for interrupting violence in our communities,” said Dr. Lora Hargrove, Director of the Governor’s Office of Faith Outreach. “The Governor’s Interfaith Council is hosting an amazing opportunity for faith communities, organizations and experts around the state to come and learn, share and support the efforts to interrupt violence - together. By working on this very important issue, led by some of our best faith and community leaders, our hope is that attendees will come away from this forum informed and inspired to get involved and take a stand against violence in all its forms.”

“There’s remarkable power in communities gathering to learn from each other,” said Paul Monteiro, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation. “At a moment where disturbing trends of hate and bias incidents continue to demand our collective attention, I’m excited to join those willing to step up and ensure Maryland remains a place where all are welcome and safe.”

Conversations will focus on supporting some of our most vulnerable citizens and those who have been impacted by hate crime violence, youth violence and domestic violence.

To register for the event, and join our effort please visit - https://forms.gle/BKJZTcGpq8K7H3Nw6

Press are welcome to attend, please RSVP to Brandon.Stoneburg@maryland.gov.

WHAT: Interrupting Violence Together Conference

WHEN: Thursday, November 14, 2024 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

WHERE: 9705 Patuxent Woods Drive, Columbia, MD, 21046

Featured speakers Include:

Sec. Paul Monteiro, Department of Service and Civic Innovation
Rev. Anne Weatherholt
Bishop LaTrelle Easterling, Presiding Elder, Baltimore Washington Conference, UMC
Dr. Stacey Cole Wilson, Executive Minister, The Beloved Community
Erica Smith, Assistant Director Women's Ministries, Seventh Day Advnentist, North American Headquarters
Dr. Deborah Bartlett, President/CEO CEO Network Ltd.
Lauren Shaivitz, Esq., CHANA
Alicia Bickoff, Faith Lead for CHANA
Adam Flasch, Deputy Chief of Staff - Governor's Office
Rev. Eric Randolph, Peace Lutheran Church
Dr. Aitza Haddad Nunnez, Administrative Director, Hispanic Commission & Caribbean Commission
Dr. Deborah Haskins, Author & Roberta's House
Rev. Kim Lagree, CEO, Healing Cities Inc.
Captain Andrew Mohammad, CEO We Are Us, Inc.
Annette March-Grier, President/Founder, Roberta's House, Inc.
Damion Cooper, Project Pneuma
Kevin Shir, Author

Lt. Governor Aruna K. Miller to Highlight Maryland's Interfaith Efforts at Violence Prevention Conference