Wednesday, April 25th: Hear ye, hear ye! V’s celebration is for VICTIMS RIGHTS WEEK. (Technically National Crime Victims’ Rights, but I needed a ‘V’ for the A to Z blog challenge, so please excuse the author liberties taken.) By order of Presidential Proclamation, this week is hereby proclaimed ‘National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, 2012’. According to the proclamation, “During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, we commemorate the efforts of all who bring hope to crime victims during their darkest hour. As we reflect on the progress we have made toward ensuring fair treatment and full support for all crime victims, let us renew that fundamental American impulse to stand with those in need.”
The Albany Herald states, “According to the federal government, 18.7 million people fell victim to crime and physical violence in 2011.” Victims and their families benefit from help in several different ways. They need emotional and moral support, witness support during the judicial process, and practical support such as financial assistance, medical treatment, or insurance claims assistance.
Local agencies provide assistance and most can use volunteer help or donations. Local crimes frequently hold candlelight vigils or memorial readings, where a helping hand is appreciated. Contact your local police or social services departments to locate agencies in your own backyard to help. Or check with one of these organizations:
The NationalCenterfor Victims of Crime: www.ncvc.org
Murder Victims’ Families for Reconciliation: http://www.mvfr.org/
Murder Victims’ Families for Human Rights: http://www.mvfhr.org/
Victim Support Foundation facilitates direct victims of violent crime as well as those who may have been indirectly affected such as a neighbor, family member or witness. http://tntvsf.org/?page_id=6
