WHEREAS, victims, including the most vulnerable in our society, are touched by violent crime every day, and thousands of Virginians become victims of crime each year; and

WHEREAS, crime victims may suffer emotional, physical, psychological, and financial hardship as a result of their victimization, and every crime affects countless others, including family members, friends, and the community at large; and

WHEREAS, since the enactment of the Victims of Crime Act of 1984 and through the dedicated work of advocates, lawmakers, and service providers, the Commonwealth of Virginia offers a growing array of services and resources as part of a system of victim response to help victims and their loved ones recover from crime; and

WHEREAS, Virginia Victims Fund, officially known as the Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund, is a state program created in 1977 by the Virginia Compensating Victims of Crime Act under Code of Virginia §19.2-368.1, and it is dedicated to serving victims and survivors with dignity and respect in the aftermath of crime by helping with unanticipated expenses such as medical bills, funeral expenses, and many other expenses; and

WHEREAS, this year marks the 30^th anniversary of the Virginia Crime Victim and Witness Rights Act, also known as the Victim’s Bill of Rights, landmark legislation that has provided countless victims with the support and protection they deserve; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia is committed to ensuring victims’ rights are upheld, increasing access and availability, as well as strengthening its programs and services to continue efforts to ease the burden caused by crime; and

WHEREAS, the theme of this year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, “Kinship: Connecting & Healing,” reflects the understanding that supporting and being alongside victims drives vital connections and increases access to services, rights, and healing; and

WHEREAS, Crime Victims’ Rights Week provides the opportunity to recognize the importance of crime victims’ services; ensures that crime victims have access to services and support; and promotes discussion on how communities, organizations, and professionals can work together to reach all victims;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize April 6-12, 2025, as CRIME VICTIMS’ RIGHTS WEEK in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all of our citizens.