This file is provided for reference purposes only. It was current when produced, but is no longer maintained and may now be outdated. Please select www.ovc.gov to access current information.

Sample Proclamation

Whereas, every individual, family and community in America have the right to live free from fear and harm; and

Whereas, while most crimes continued to decrease in our nation in 1997, U.S. residents still experienced nearly 35 million criminal victimizations, including nearly nine million violent crimes; and

Whereas, the victims' rights discipline and countless individual victims have worked over a quarter of a century to ensure that victims' voices are heard throughout our justice system and in communities concerned with safety; and

Whereas, over 30,000 federal and state laws have been passed that define and protect the rights of crime victims, with over 10,000 national, state and local agencies today providing support and services to victims of crime; and

Whereas, during 1999 National Crime Victims' Rights Week, the powerful voices of victims and those who serve them will be commemorated with the theme "Victims' Voices: Silent No More"; and

Whereas, the voices of victims offer us important insights into the personal pain and loss that victims endure, and are voices that deserve our nation's attention and respect; therefore, be it

Resolved, that (individual or entity) proclaims the week of April 25 to May 1, 1999 to be (city/county/parish/state) Crime Victims' Rights Week; and be it further

Resolved, that we recognize the valuable contributions made this year, and every year, by crime victims and advocates who diligently promote justice for all, and offer strong voices for personal and public protection and safety; and be it further

Resolved, that a suitably prepared copy of this proclamation be presented to (your organization).

The information on this page is archived and provided for reference purposes only.