Attorney General Eric Holder (AP File Photo)
(CNSNews.com) - Attorney General Eric Holder on Monday announced an effort to counter "violent extremism" by spurring "local engagement" in cities across the country.
He did not offer specifics, but it sounds like he wants law enforcement and community leaders to meet regularly, to share information on people who may have traveled overseas to join ISIS, or on people who may be plotting attacks right here in the U.S.
“Today, I am announcing that the Department of Justice is partnering with the White House, the Department of Homeland Security, and the National Counterterrorism Center to launch a new series of pilot programs in cities across the nation," Holder said.
"These programs will bring together community representatives, public safety officials, religious leaders, and United States Attorneys to improve local engagement; to counter violent extremism; and -- ultimately -- to build a broad network of community partnerships to keep our nation safe."
Holder said the administration "will work closely with community representatives to develop comprehensive local strategies, to raise awareness about important issues, to share information on best practices, and to expand and improve training in every area of the country."
He noted that since 2012, U.S. attorneys have held or attended more than 1,700 "engagement-related events or meetings to enhance trust and facilitate communication in their neighborhoods and districts." The new pilot programs will build on that work, he said.
Holder also announced that the White House plans to host a "Countering Violent Extremism" summit in October.
Holder did not mention Islam or Muslims, and he used the phrase "violent extremism" to describe the "urgent" threat that the nation faces.
"We must be both innovative and aggressive in countering violent extremism and combating those who would sow intolerance, division, and hate – not just within our borders, but with our international partners on a global scale. And we must never lose sight of what violent extremists fear the most: the strength of our communities; our unwavering respect for equality, civil rights, and civil liberties; and our enduring commitment to justice, democracy, and the rule of law.”