SEMINAR DESCRIPTIONS

This is a forty-hour seminar designed to train law enforcement and other professionals in the recognition and identification of deviant groups and movements.  The general thrust of the course is multifaceted toward counter terrorism, homeland security, anti-American activities, and movements with philosophies having a potential of alienating the practitioners with mainstream Americans.  Most deviant and anti-government movements are either driven or influenced by a religious belief and often requires a different approach by law enforcement for the safety of the officer and society. 

Most non-mainstream beliefs are frequently misunderstood by law enforcement personnel and the public because of the emotion attached to religion.  Understanding the belief system itself, can often serve law enforcement by identifying the motive of a crime or purpose of a harmless ritual.  A few of the many broad belief systems addressed in this course are: Christianity, Paganism, Wicca, Judaism, Voodoo, Obeah, Islam, Santeria, Palo Mayombe', Christian Identity, Candomble', Brujeria, Quimbanda, Umbanda, and Shamanism.  The primary focus, however, is on deviant movements within the primary religions themselves.

Additionally, the assumption that all "patriot" organizations and movements are the same or that all are destructive is an invalid conclusion.  This course takes a close, historical  look at the "patriot" and other anti-government movements, their beliefs, their actions, and their goals.

This seminar is not a religious crusade.  It addresses religious beliefs and movements from a law enforcement perspective with the goal of helping officers understand the motivations behind both individual and group actions.  Some of the religions and sects  covered have been a part of the American Culture for centuries.   Others are a result of immigration and an increased emphasis on cultural identity.   Still others are primarily anti-American or anti-Western in philosophy.   Because of the increasingly diverse sub-cultures within the United States, this course should be required training for all law enforcement officers and public service personnel. The course requires in-depth discussions of religion, race, cultures, beliefs, organizations, and related subjects.  Individuals who are overly sensitive to discussions of these subjects or who are easily offended by differing opinions in these areas should carefully consider their need to attend.