Backup Documents 04/09/2013 Item # 4D PROCLAMATION
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WHEREAS, 18.7 million Americans are directly harmed by crime each year and each crime affects many more
family members, friends, neighbors and co-workers; and,
WHEREAS, the physical, emotional and financial impact of crime falls on people of all ages and abilities and of
all economic, racial and social backgrounds; and,
WHEREAS, in addition to these challenges, crime victims face a criminal justice system that, at times, ignores
their rights and treats them with disrespect; and,
WHEREAS, in 1982, the President's Task Force on Victims of Crime envisioned a national commitment to a
more equitable and supportive response to victims; and,
WHEREAS, the nation heeded this call to action and promoted victims' rights initiatives, effective and
compassionate victim services and just compensation and financial support; and,
WHEREAS, today, thousands of victim assistance programs provide he/p and support to child victims of
violence and abuse; stalking victims; survivors of homicide victims; victims of drunk-driving
crashes; and victims of domestic, dating and sexual violence and other crimes; and,
WHEREAS, the victim assistance community faces new challenges to reach and serve all victims, including
victims of new crimes such as cybercrime, terrorism and those distrustful of the criminal justice
system; and,
WHEREAS, now is the time to embrace new solutions that involve new partnerships with underserved
communities and a greater emphasis on learning what works in meeting victims'needs; and,
WHEREAS, the United States Department of Justice launched the 'Vision 21" initiative to renew our nation's
commitment to serving all victims of crime in the 21'century; and,
WHEREAS, National Crime Victim's Rights Week provides an opportunity to celebrate the energy, creativity
and commitment to serving all victims of crime in the 21S'century; and,
WHEREAS, the Collier County Sheriff's Office, State Attorney's Office 20" Judicial Circuit of Collier County
and Project Help, Inc. are joining forces with victim service programs, criminal justice officials
and concerned citizens throughout Collier County and America to raise awareness of victims rights.
NOW THEREFORE, be it proclaimed by the Board of County Commissioners of Collier County, Florida, that April
21' - 27"', 2013 be designated as
CRIME VICTIM'S RIGHTS WEEK
DONE AND ORDERED THIS 9'h Day of April, 2013.
BO' •r. O' COON COMMISSIONERS
Co R i O N , FLORIDA
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G••AGIA A. HILLER, CHAIRWOMAN t f,',)„` '
ATTEST: ~0 d,.•. .. S
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oor DWIGHT E. BROCK, CLERK i ;