Local victims will receive flowers Monday during an annual ceremony to recognize their rights as a part of National Crime Victims Week.
Every year since 1981, a week is set aside during the month of April as National Crime Victim’s Week to increase awareness of victims’ rights, honor crime victims, and aid those who advocate on their behalf, according to the National Crime Victim Law Institute.
The theme, which changes every year, is “Extending the vision, reaching every victim.”
The Athens County Prosecutor’s Office hosts an annual flower planting ceremony to recognize the rights of local victims at 3:30 p.m. on Monday at the Athens County Courthouse.
Activities include a speech from the prosecutor, judges and crime victim. Each victim will be given a flower to plant in recognition of his or her rights.
Director of Victim Assistants Jordan Jiuliani said the office wants to ensure victims are treated fairly. “If something does happen, you have these rights and we are here to help you,” Jiuliani said.
Victim Assistance Intern Megan Chalk, who helped plan the event, said “We are encouraging all community members to get involved with this event and are expecting it to be a great success.”
