This is the week that the Nation honors crime victims. I wish more people would do this more than once a year, but at least it is done once a year. (Especially since National Domestic Violence month is overlooked since it is the same month as Breast Cancer Awareness month – a good cause indeed, but more people are affected by Domestic Violence and it is just as deadly if not more so than breast cancer. But it is overlooked and shoved under the carpet still). Whittier, CA has a permanent memorial to their murder victims, which I think is great. This way those victims can always be remembered. Maybe more cities will do the same when they can. Take this week to remember those who were taken from us too early, by the actions of others. Those actions are usually very violent, sociopathic and deadly. Most killers care only about themselves and have no empathy for the people in their lives. But this week, remember the victims not the ones who took them away. Victims and their loved ones want to be treated with respect and dignity, but unfortunately, it does not always happen. Many people blame the victim for their own murders and do not care if any justice happens. In fact, last night I read a story where a jury blamed a victim, a teenage girl basically set up by detectives, for her own murder. I am disgusted by that. The detectives falsely (and they knew she had not) told a gang leader that this girl blamed him for another crime and he arranged her murder from jail. But of course, it was her fault. This jury would probably have allowed a serial killer to go free too, in my opinion. (And yes, I do know that some victims have some culpability in their murders due to their own behaviors, but the majority DO NOT.) These families/loved ones, also want and deserve justice. Many times it happens, many times it does not. In fact, there are still States that do not allow victims’ impact statements at sentencing or parole hearings. Some are not even told before an offender is released from custody. This, to me, is unbelievable. Especially with a violent offender, who may cause more violence. Each and every State, County, and City needs to have programs for victims, whether it be for helping through the Criminal Justice system, through parole hearings, or just getting their lives back. Victims’ Advocacy is so important, but not recognized by many. Until they need it themselves.
I personally hope for justice and remembrance for each and every victim. In my life, while there may not be justice for everyone we have lost, but they will never be forgotten.
Office for Victims of Crime
2010 Resource Guide
National Center for the Victims of Crime
CrimeVictims.org
Office of Justice Programs
National Crime Victim Law Institute
Candlelight Vigil tonight for National Crime Victim’s Rights Week
Remembering Victims Of Violent Crime
Homicide victims honored at Rose Hills
Crime Victim Center hosting rally Tuesday
Parents of murdered children honor victims of violent crime
Playing cards feature cold cases
Nine in county honored as Citizens of Courage
Crime victims’ rights – fairness, dignity and respect
