Steve Cohen: “Mr. Speaker, House Resolution 1104 supports the goals and mission of National Crime Victims' Rights Week, celebrated…”

“Mr. Speaker, House Resolution 1104 supports the goals and mission of National Crime Victims' Rights Week, celebrated this week, April 18 through 24. This year's National Crime Victims' Rights Week theme is ``Crime Victims' Rights: Fairness. Dignity. Respect.'' Every April individuals in communities across the country, with the support of the Department of Justice's Office of Victims of Crime, observe National Crime Victims' Rights Week. Rallies, candle-light vigils and many other commemorative events honor crime victims during this observance of victims' rights. National Crime Victims' Rights Week is observed to highlight the special needs of more than 21 million victims of crime and survivors of crime each year, including over 5 million victims of violent crime. Although the number of murder victims in 2008 fell by almost 4 percent from the previous year, we must remain vigilant in this fight against violent crime. During this week in April, we take time out to ensure that resources and services are available to help crime victims rebuild their lives and to acknowledge the impact of crime on individuals, families, and communities. Crime victims suffer not only from the losses that directly result from the crime, but also from the emotional trauma of being victimized.”