BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — The District Attorney has announced this week as National Crime Victims' Rights Week in Kern County.
The week was instituted in 1981 by President Ronald Reagan in an effort to bring greater awareness to the needs and rights of victims of crime.
This year's theme -- Seek Justice: Ensure Victims' Rights: Inspire Hope -- is meant to recognize those whose tireless work in victim advocacy has advanced victims' rights and to inspire hope for those who have suffered loss at the hands of criminals that there are always opportunities for justice.
While this week is often carried out with vigils and ceremonies, and highlights the District Attorney's Victims' Rights March in Kern County, the Coronavirus pandemic has caused many of these events to cancel.
Beginning today, the District Attorney’s Office will be releasing short videos on its Facebook page throughout the week in celebration of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, and in honor of the themes and messages embodied in this important national event.
District Attorney Cynthia Zimmer commented on the plans for Crime Victims’ Rights Week, stating:
“We have grown accustomed to coming together every year in honor of Crime Victims’ Rights Week and hearing the countless stories of how crime has impacted so many members of our community. We hear from families who have successfully sought and achieved justice for their loved ones as well as those still yearning for justice. For those in the law enforcement community, Victims’ Rights Week has always served as a powerful reminder of the importance of our work to such a broad array of families within our community who are impacted by crime. Though the pandemic prevents us from being together to share our experiences, we take the message of Victims’ Rights Week to heart as we continue to pursue justice on every case.”
Each day this week, the District Attorney’s Office Facebook page will post a new video from leaders within the District Attorney’s Office abut their work supporting victims of crime.
The District Attorney’s Office is encouraging crime victims to feel free to post messages and responses sharing their own experiences with crime and their own pursuits for justice.
