Jim Costa: “This week is National Crime Victims' Rights Week; therefore, it is appropriate that we raise the awareness of survivors'…”

“This week is National Crime Victims' Rights Week; therefore, it is appropriate that we raise the awareness of survivors' challenges and the advocates who help rebuild their lives. In the face of a victim's trauma, there are countless individuals across the Nation committed to making things right, such as the incredible staff at the Community Action Partnership of Madera County, which I represent. As cochair of the Victims' Rights Caucus, I will have the honor tomorrow of presenting the Ed Stout Memorial Award for Outstanding Victim Advocacy. Programs operated by the Community Action Partnership have met all types of crime victims' needs and reduced the barriers that sometimes prevent victims from accessing services that are so important. In addition, individuals like Darius Assemi and his family have shared time and treasure to construct the Marjaree Mason Center in Clovis, which is a 24-hour safe haven for women and children. Each of us has a voice that can speak out against violence and listen to those who have suffered as a result of violence. We can all do our part--and we all should. Until the day when there are no more victims, we will all be with those who have suffered. ____________________”