04/17/2026
National Crime Victims’ Rights Week kicks off this Sunday, April 19th. It is a time to honor survivors, recognize the professionals who support them, and reaffirm our collective commitment to justice. Established in 1981 by presidential proclamation, this annual observance emerged from the victims’ rights movement to ensure that individuals affected by crime are treated with dignity, respect, and compassion within the justice system.
At Child Justice, this mission is at the heart of everything we do. With critical support from the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA), we provide free, trauma-informed civil legal services to children and protective caregivers impacted by abuse and family violence. During this week of remembrance and advocacy, we celebrate the progress made, acknowledge the work still to be done, and reaffirm our commitment to protecting children and promoting justice for all.
In Maryland, the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy, in partnership with the Victim and Witness Divisions of the State’s Attorneys’ Offices, and the Maryland Board of Victim Services, sponsors four regional memorial services each year during the National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. The memorial services feature inspirational speakers, musical performances, and quiet reflection which honor over 4,000 crime victims of homicide, vehicular manslaughter, and missing crime victims and their families. These memorial services provide a safe, supportive, and trustworthy space for families of crime victims to congregate and share their stories. Memorial services will be held on Sunday, April 19 (see image for times and locations).
If you would like to support victims of domestic violence and child abuse in honor of NCVRW, please consider making a donation to Child Justice to support our work in Maryland and beyond. ⚖