Letter to the Editor

To the Editor:

The week of April 19–25 marks the 45th anniversary of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW).

It is an important time to recognize crime victims and survivors, to honor their experiences, and to make sure their voices are heard. When survivors speak, we all have an opportunity to listen, learn, and do better.

This year’s theme, CommUNITY, highlights the strength that comes from people coming together to support victims. Survivors are supported every day by victim service organizations, criminal justice and mental and behavioral health professionals, faith leaders, family members, friends, and many others.

No one should have to go through the aftermath of crime alone, and this theme reminds us that help is strongest when it comes from a caring CommUNITY working together.

At the same time, many challenges continue to affect victims and the services that support them. Ongoing cuts to federal funding have led to fewer resources and reduced services at a time when they are needed most.

Too often, victims are still blamed or shamed for crimes committed against them, which can make healing even harder.

Even with these challenges, communities remain strong and resilient.

National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is a reminder that we all have a role to play—by standing with victims, listening to their stories, and offering support with compassion and respect.

By coming together as a CommUNITY, we can continue to support survivors, honor their rights, and ensure they never have to face their journey alone.

Barb Dinkel Goodrich

Lead Advocate–Domestic

Violence and Sexual Assault

Victim Services

Hands of Hope–Todd County