In an era where community safety takes center stage, Councilwoman Inna Vernikov has been at the forefront of an inspiring movement to protect and empower Brooklyn’s Asian communities. Through the Asian Community Watch (ACW) initiative, she and a group of dedicated volunteers are making a tangible difference in the fight against hate crimes and the improvement of community life.
Reported by News 12 The Bronx, Mar 16, 2023
In March, News 12 The Bronx reported on the birth of a unique community watchdog group that is actively supporting the NYPD as an extra set of eyes and ears in the Gravesend community. Comprised entirely of volunteers, the Asian Community Watch Group (ACW) partnered with Brooklyn’s 48th Precinct to address a growing concern—rising Asian hate crimes.
Councilwoman Inna Vernikov, understanding the gravity of the situation, met with concerned members of the Asian community who sought assistance with this issue. Inspired by the successful model of the Jewish community’s Flatbush Shoman Safety, she envisioned creating a similar initiative for the Asian community. This was the catalyst for ACW.
Retired law enforcement professionals also joined ACW, bringing their expertise to the group’s mission. The Asian Community Watch Group embarked on neighborhood walks, aiming to familiarize residents with their presence and establish themselves as a reliable resource for safety.
Their overarching goal? To be the vigilant eyes and ears of the NYPD, working tirelessly to prevent Asian hate crimes. The collaborative effort was initiated in the midst of a positive trend, with NYPD data indicating a 69% reduction in hate crimes compared to the previous year. ACW aspires to see this number continue to decrease.
Reported by CBS New York, April 25, 2023
Fast forward to April 25th, as we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. In the heart of Brooklyn’s Homecrest neighborhood, a dedicated group of residents continues to prioritize community safety. They are the volunteers of the Asian Community Watch (ACW), and their unwavering commitment is transforming their communities.
These volunteers, donned in matching vests and armed with flyers, patrol the neighborhood streets and visit local businesses. ACW, once a budding initiative, has now become a beacon of hope and safety in Brooklyn.
Volunteers like Stanley Ng, from Dyker Heights, have stepped up to ensure the safety of their neighborhoods. They’ve learned to observe, watch, and know when to intervene safely. ACW’s training, led by retired NYPD Lieutenant John Doherty, emphasizes the importance of using cellphones to document any criminal activity while avoiding direct confrontation.
Councilwoman Inna Vernikov, the driving force behind ACW, has allocated essential funding to sustain the group for a second year. Her vision extends beyond crime prevention; it’s about providing a lifeline for those who may feel uncomfortable calling the police. With ACW, they can connect with individuals who speak their language and understand their concerns.
ACW primarily patrols along Avenue U, between East 19th and East 13th streets, a bustling commercial strip where their presence is most impactful. They distribute valuable information on how to reach them for assistance and recruit new volunteers.
Beyond hate crime prevention, ACW actively addresses quality of life concerns, such as sanitation issues and unsafe street conditions. Their mission is clear: to serve the entire community. In a world where statistics reveal alarming hate crime figures, the presence of ACW offers solace. Their work reflects a shared commitment to safeguarding communities and making Brooklyn a safer and more inclusive place for all. As ACW continues to grow, they are actively seeking new volunteers to join their evening patrols. Together, they are making a difference that extends far beyond Brooklyn’s neighborhoods.