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U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser joins the Department of Justice and communities nationwide in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, celebrating victims’ rights, protections and services. This year’s observance takes place April 19-25 and features the theme, “Seek Justice – Ensure Victims’ Rights – Inspire Hope.”

“Every year, millions of Americans suffer the shock and trauma of criminal victimization, affecting their well-being and sense of security and dignity,” said U.S. Attorney General William P. Barr. “To these victims, we affirm our unwavering commitment to supporting them in their hour of need. We also commend the thousands of victim advocates and public safety professionals who labor tirelessly to secure victims’ rights and support survivors.”

“Even during this global pandemic, the mission of our office remains the same: to investigate potential wrongdoing, prosecute criminal behavior and seek justice for victims,” stated Strasser. “It is extremely important for crime victims to know that we are still here and working diligently to pursue justice.”

Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first Victims’ Rights Week in 1981, putting crime victims’ rights, needs and concerns in a prominent spot on the American agenda. He also established the President’s Task Force on Victims of Crime, which laid the groundwork for a national network of services and legal safeguards for crime victims. President Trump’s administration has implemented historic levels of support for victim assistance and compensation.

Some 3.3 million Americans age 12 and older were victims of violent crime in 2018, according to the National Crime Victimization Survey. The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), part of the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs, supports more than 7,000 local victim assistance and compensation programs in every state and U.S. territory. Funding comes from the Crime Victims Fund, derived from federal criminal fines, penalties and bond forfeitures.

During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, advocacy organizations, community groups and state, local and tribal agencies usually host various events to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services. This year, many communities are organizing virtual gatherings and awareness campaigns.

This year’s commemoration began April 19, 25 years to the day when a truck bomb exploded in front of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. This took the lives of 168 people, including 19 children, and injured hundreds. This attack remains the worst act of domestic terrorism in U.S. history and led to the establishment of the Antiterrorism Emergency Reserve, administered by OVC. The Reserve provides direct services to hundreds of victims of mass violence and terrorism.

“Crime victims deserve to know that they have the encouragement and support of the American people,” said OVC Director Jessica E. Hart. “I hope that citizens throughout the nation will take the opportunity this week to remember all victims of crime and their heroic stories of survival. I encourage everyone to also find meaningful ways to express their appreciation to the many committed and compassionate service providers across the country who work tirelessly supporting these survivors.”

This year, the annual National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony will be postponed until a time when we can honor this year’s award recipients in person. During the ceremony, OVC will present awards to individuals and organizations for their outstanding service on behalf of crime victims. Awardees are selected from public nominations in 11 categories, including federal service, special courage, public policy and victim services. Visit www.ovc.gov/gallery to learn more about past recipients.

Peter Strasser is the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana. For more information on creating your own campaign to raise awareness about crime victims’ rights and services please visit https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw2020/overview.html.