National Crime Victims' Rights WeekPROCLAMATION
VILLAGE OF NORTH PALM BEACH
OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
NATIONAL CRIME VICTIMS' RIGHTS WEEK
WHEREAS, 18.7 million Americans are directly harmed by crime each year, and each crime affects many more
family members, friends, neighbors, and co- workers; and
WHEREAS, the physical, emotional, and financial impact of crime falls on people of all ages and abilities, and of
all economic, racial, and social backgrounds; and
WHEREAS, in addition to these challenges, crime victims face a criminal justice system that, at times, ignores
their rights and treats them with disrespect; and
WHEREAS, in 1982, the President's Task Force on Victims of Crime envisioned a national commitment to a
more equitable and supportive response to victims; Whereas, the nation heeded this call to action and promoted victims'
rights initiatives, effective and compassionate victim services, and just compensation and financial support; and
WHEREAS, today, thousands of victim assistance programs provide help and support to child victims of violence
and sexual abuse; stalking victims; survivors of homicide victims; victims of drunk- driving crashes; and victims of
domestic, dating, and sexual violence and other crimes; and
WHEREAS, now is the time to "Extend the Vision" through a comprehensive strategy for reaching and serving
every victim of crime, especially traditionally underserved victims such as those with disabilities and victims from diverse
cultures; and
WHEREAS, the United States Department of Justice has launched the Vision 21 initiative to renew our nation's
commitment to serving all victims of crime in the 21" Century; and
WHEREAS, National Crime Victims' Rights Week April 22 -28, 2012, provides an opportunity to extend that
vision to every victim in the United States — to help ensure their access to the help they deserve and the rights they are
promised; and
WHEREAS, the Palm Beach Victims' Rights Coalition is joining forces with victim service programs, criminal
justice officials, and concerned citizens throughout Palm Beach County and America to raise awareness of victims' rights
and observe National Crime Victims' Rights Week; and
NOW, THEREFORE, I, David B. Norris, by virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor of the Village of North
Pahn Beach, Florida, I hereby proclaim April 22 -28, 2012, as
NATIONAL CRIME VICTIMS' RIGHTS WEEK
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the Village of North Palm Beach to be affixed
this 26th day of April, 2012.
.\
1 rl r kt
114