Governor Kathy Hochul issued a proclamation on April 19 designating the week of April 19 through April 25 as National Crime Victims’ Rights Week in New York State. The announcement coincides with the federal observance, which honors individuals, families, and communities affected by crime and recognizes professionals who provide support to help them recover.
The initiative aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by crime victims and highlight available services that aid their recovery. As part of the observance, landmarks across New York were illuminated in this year’s theme colors: Inkwell Blue, Poppy, and Harbor Blue.
“As the proud daughter of a mother who dedicated herself to assisting victims of domestic violence, I remain steadfast in my commitment to ensure that victims and survivors of crime have access to the support and services they need to heal,” Governor Hochul said. “As we observe Crime Victims’ Rights Week in New York State, I ask you to join me in being an ally and amplifying the voices of victims so they know that they are heard, seen and supported.”
Landmarks such as One World Trade Center, Niagara Falls, Empire State Plaza, Moynihan Train Hall, among others were included in this statewide illumination effort. The week’s theme is “Listen. Act. Advocate. Protect Victims, Support Communities.”
Bea Hanson, Director of the New York State Office of Victim Services (OVS), said: “The staff of OVS are proud of the work we do every day to ensure that victims and survivors of crime have the resources they need to recover, heal and thrive… I thank Governor Hochul for her unwavering support for crime victims and survivors and ask all New Yorkers to join us in raising awareness about life-changing services available to survivors.”
New York has been recognized as a leader in protecting crime victims’ rights for nearly six decades since establishing one of the nation’s first compensation programs. Recent changes include enacting the Fair Access to Victims Compensation Act last year which allows documentation from victim service providers or medical professionals instead of requiring police reports when filing claims.
Additional amendments over recent months doubled funeral expense caps from $6,000 to $12,000; expanded eligibility for reimbursement related to financial scams; broadened coverage for sexual assault survivors; increased reimbursement rates for forensic exams; among other measures aimed at improving victim support.
Rossana Rosado from DCJS said: “During Crime Victims’ Rights Week… DCJS works hard behind the scenes… with sensitivity… including resources to recover from human trafficking [and] gun violence.” Kelli Nicholas Owens from OPDV added: “Every victim and survivor deserves to be heard… OPDV remains committed… every day.”
Last year alone OVS provided more than $19.3 million for medical bills and other expenses without using state or federal tax dollars—all payments are funded by fines paid by convicted individuals.
