Crime Survivors and Advocates Unite to Observe 2026 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week

The week of April 19 to 25, 2026 marks the 45th anniversary of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW), first proclaimed by President Ronald Reagan in 1981.

Also proclaimed Connecticut Crime Victims’ Rights Week, this is a time-honored tradition that recognizes the plight of victims and survivors and those who work tirelessly on their behalf. The 2026 NCVRW theme, CommUNITY, highlights the collective support available for crime survivors from organizations, professionals, faith groups, and loved ones. No survivor should face victimization alone—there is a dedicated community ready to help.

However, many challenges threaten this broad commUNITY nationwide. Ongoing cutbacks to federal funding for victim/survivor services have resulted in significant reductions to greatly needed survivor services. Volunteers are needed to staff hotlines and strengthen efforts to support survivors. And sadly, too often crime survivors are still blamed and shamed for the crime that was committed against them.

Attorney Natasha M. Pierre, State Victim Advocate, stated, "The Office of The Victim Advocate (OVA) joined nationwide efforts this year alongside NOVA, the National Organization of Victim Assistance and hundreds of other national agencies to help support the vital connection among state organizations, fostering collaboration and mutual understanding when addressing the needs and rights of crime victims." Both local and national events recognizing the 2026 National Crime Victims' Rights Week (NCVRW) will include training sessions, onsite assistance, a mindful movement event, and a virtual 5k. For further details on events and registration, please visit www.ct.gov/ova. For more information about 2026 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and its commemorative activities here in Connecticut, please contact Vanessa M. Torres with the OVA at vanessa.m.torres@ct.gov.