History of the Week

During the past three decades, the U.S. has made dramatic progress in securing rights, protections, and services for victims of crime. Every state has enacted victim’s rights laws, law enforcement agencies give victims greater protection, and more than 10,000 victim assistance programs have been established throughout the country. Every state has a crime victim compensation fund, and powerful federal laws, such as the Crime Victim’s Right Act to help protect victims and fund needed services.

About the Week

Every year in April, this week is set aside as a time for all Americans to learn about victimization, reflect on the cost of crime to our society, and promote laws, policies, and programs that help victims of crime rebuild their lives. Last year’s theme was “Victim’s Rights: Every Victim. Every Time.” This coming year, victims' week will be April 21 - 27, 2013 with a theme of “New Challenges. New Solutions.”

It is important to recognize that achieving justice means repairing the harm suffered by all victims of crime. Therefore, community members are always encouraged to join in the week’s activities and get involved in helping victims of crime.