Honor Crime Victims Event

April 10, 2019 WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize that the quality and character of life in the communities across New York State are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those organizations and individuals who would devote themselves to the welfare of the community and its citizenry; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commend the Crime Victims Advocate Program of Kew Gardens, New York, upon the occasion of hosting an event highlighting crime victims' rights "Honoring Our Past, Creating Hope for the Future" to be celebrated on Wednesday, April 10, 2019; and WHEREAS, This auspicious event is held each year in conjunction with National Crime Victims' Rights Week which will be held April 7-13, 2019; this year's theme will recognize the progress made by those before us as we look to a future of crime victim services that is even more inclusive, accessible, and trauma-informed; and WHEREAS, Every man, woman and child who is victimized by crime in America deserves to be treated with dignity and compassion, and merits services and support to help them in the aftermath of crime; and WHEREAS, Each year, one American household in three is affected by a serious crime each year; these victims may feel shock, anger or shame; and WHEREAS, The Crime Victims Advocate Program (CVAP) was established by the Queens District Attorney's Officer to ensure crime victims are treated with respect and understanding throughout their contact with the criminal justice system; and WHEREAS, The CVAP assists felony crime victims with practical difficulties they may face because they were victimized; they may receive general information about the criminal justice system, details about the prosecution of the person who victimized them, information about how to apply for financial compensation for certain crime related expenses and transportation to and from court appearances when needed; and WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those who enhance the well-being and vitality of their community and have shown a long and sustained commitment to excellence certainly have earned the recognition and applause of all the citizens of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commend the Crime Victims Advocate Program of Kew Gardens, New York, upon the occasion of hosting an event highlighting crime victims' rights "Honoring Our Past, Creating Hope for the Future" on April 10, 2019; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the Crime Victims Advocate Program.