Virtual ‘Active Shooter’ Training Will Educate Montclair Residents

MONTCLAIR, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of Out Montclair. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

On Wednesday, Out Montclair announced that the organization is partnering with the Montclair Ambulance Unit to host a virtual training session on what patrons should do if they find themselves in an active shooter scenario. This event is open to everyone and all groups are encouraged to attend.

"In 2023, if you are different in America, you are targeted. We have seen violence directed at African Americans, Hispanics, Jews, AAPI Americans, Muslims, the LGBTQIA+ community and so many others. Out Montclair hopes the training will be helpful, but never needed. We want to invite all of our friends across targeted communities to join us.", said Out Montclair Executive Director Peter Yacobellis. "In the wake of the Colorado Springs shooting at Club Q, local hate vandalism and more, I want everyone to feel safe and comfortable going about their lives and enjoying themselves. But it doesn't hurt to know a thing or two if you find yourself in an unimaginable scenario.", he added

The Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (CRASE) course, designed and built on the Avoid, Deny Defend strategy developed by ALERRT in 2004, provides strategies, guidance, and a proven plan for surviving an active shooter event. Topics include the history and prevalence of active shooter events, civilian response options, medical issues, and considerations for conducting drills.

The virtual event will take place on Wednesday, Jan. 18 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. and will include a presentation from the Montclair Ambulance Unit as well as time for questions. The event will be recorded.

Those interested in attending the virtual session must register here: https://buytickets.at/outmontclair/830862 and will be sent the Zoom Webinar credentials.

Upon registration there is an option to make a $10 suggested contribution. Out Montclair will donate 100% of these proceeds to Inside Out Youth Services in Colorado Spring, which is working to provide mental health and other support to LGBTQ+ youth in the Colorado Springs area.

Recent History of Mass Shootings Targeting the LGBTQ Community

This past November a mass shooting occurred at Club Q, an LGBTQ nightclub in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Five people were killed, and 25 others were injured,19 of them by gunfire. The gunman was apprehended after heroic patrons fought back.

On June 12, 2016 a gunman killed 49 people and wounded 53 more in a mass shooting at Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida, United States. Orlando Police officers shot and killed him after a three-hour standoff.

About Inside Out Youth Services

IOYS builds access, equity, and power with LGBTQIA2+ young people, through leadership, advocacy, community-building, education, and peer support.

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