National Crime Victims’ Rights Week Since 1981, National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) has challenged the nation to reflect on victims and their families, the professionals who serve them, and on the struggle for fairness, dignity, and respect for victims of crime. Every year, the Nation celebrates decades of hard-earned progress and renews its commitment to ensuring that all victims have the rights and services they need to recover from crime. This year, the theme “Crime Victims’ Rights: Fairness, Dignity and Respect.” recalls the ideals that inspired the victims’ rights movement and the laws, services, and awareness we seek to build and promote. These basic human rights, particularly in times of crisis, resonate with victims, service providers, and all the visionaries who helped make these ideals a reality. Washoe County has celebrated NCVRW since 1991 with several different events and activities to help bring awareness to the community. Some examples include the Clothesline project and a poster contest with the theme “Facing Violence Today, Fewer Victims Tomorrow.” The first Candlelight Vigil was held in 1992, and has been an annual event ever since. As a way to remember those whose lives have been touched by crime, a Memorial Quilt project began in 1994. Survivors are still able to add their story to this beautiful piece of history that travels the Northern Nevada region. Additionally, a memorial garden at both Rancho San Rafael Park and Sparks Marina have also been developed as a way to continue victims’ rights awareness and provide a peaceful place for reflection. The 2010 annual Candlelight Vigil will be held on Wednesday, April 21st at 5:30 at the Mills B. Lane Justice Center. A small reception will be held after. This event is free and is open to the public. For more information on victims’ rights, ways to remember your loved ones, or the Candlelight Vigil, please visit www.allianceforvictimsrights.com ###
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