National Crime Victims' Rights Week

In 1981, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first victims' Rights Week, calling for "a renewed emphasis on, and an enhanced sensitivity to, the rights of victims." Each April since then, communities nationwide have held public rallies, candlelight observances, and commemorative activities to promote awareness of victims' rights and needs. OVC coordinates the annual commemoration of National Crime Victims' Rights Week (NCVRW) and uses the event to recognize individuals and organizations that demonstrate outstanding service in supporting victims and victim services. OVC also helps communities organize activities and initiatives during the weeklong celebration by supporting the development and dissemination of the NCVRW Resource Guide—a collection of national statistics on crime and victimization, sample press releases, camera-ready artwork, and sample speeches and proclamations. Each year, OVC conducts an extensive nomination and review process to identify exemplary individuals and organizations for the National Crime Victim Service Award and the Crime Victims Fund Award. The Service Award is the highest federal honor bestowed on outstanding advocates, many of whom are victims serving as role models and offering inspiration to others in the field. The Fund Award recognizes outstanding federal employees whose work exemplifies efforts to hold offenders accountable and contribute deposits in the Crime Victims Fund. For information about past award recipients' accomplishments, visit the NCVRW page on the OVC Web site.

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