[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 120, 109th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8006--APR. 20, 2006
Proclamation 8006 of April 20, 2006
National Crime Victims' Rights Week, 2006
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
During National Crime Victims' Rights Week, we underscore our commitment
to safeguarding the rights of the victims of crime and their families,
and we honor those who bring them hope and comfort.
Behind each crime victim there is a story of trauma, a story of
suffering, and a story of lost security. This year's theme, ``Victims'
Rights: Strength in Unity,'' emphasizes the importance of joining
together to support these individuals and to promote victims' rights and
services. With the help of victim service providers, faith-based and
community groups, justice professionals, and volunteers, we can work to
improve the lives of crime victims across our country.
Violent crime rates have fallen to their lowest levels since the 1970s,
and we must continue our progress in the fight against crime and remain
dedicated to protecting the rights of crime victims. The Office for
Victims of Crime at the Department of Justice (DOJ) provides funding to
States for victim assistance programs and supports training on victims'
rights for criminal justice professionals. To increase access to
comprehensive support and services for victims of domestic violence, the
DOJ awarded more than $20 million to support the creation of 15 Family
Justice Centers across the country. Several of these centers have

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opened and are making a difference in victims' lives. To further ensure
basic rights for all victims, we must also ratify a Crime Victims'
Rights Amendment to the Constitution.
To learn more about victims' rights and how to make a difference, visit
crimevictims.gov. All Americans share a responsibility to help victims
of crime, and our Nation will continue to work together to achieve
justice for victims and build a more hopeful society for all.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 23 through April 29,
2006, as National Crime Victims' Rights Week. I encourage all Americans
to promote awareness of victims' rights and advance this important
cause.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of
April, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the Independence
of the United States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.
GEORGE W. BUSH