On September 25, the City of Chicago will highlight National If You See Something, Say Something Awareness Day, a crucial initiative aimed at enhancing public vigilance against terrorism-related activities. Organized by the Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) in collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security, this campaign underscores the importance of community involvement in national security. The 2024 theme focuses on three actionable words: Spot, Report, and Prevent, guiding residents on how to identify and report suspicious activities effectively. The campaign clarifies that certain personal characteristics, such as race or religion, are not indicators of suspicious behavior. To engage a broader audience, OEMC has partnered with Marvel Comics, utilizing the character Ironheart to communicate preparedness messages tailored for all age groups.

Residents are reminded to stay alert in various public spaces and to report any concerning activities by calling 9-1-1. For more resources, OEMC provides a dedicated toolkit on its website, along with links to FEMA’s September preparedness resources. This initiative not only fosters a safer environment but also strengthens community ties through shared responsibility.