[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 126, 112th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8804--APR. 23, 2012

Proclamation 8804 of April 23, 2012

National Crime Victims' Rights Week, 2012

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

For more than three decades, advocates from every corner of America have
worked to reinforce rights, services, and support for victims of crime.
Our 1Nation stands stronger for their efforts. Today, thousands of
victim assistance programs empower survivors with the tools to re-


[[Page 2567]]


build their lives. Yet, when only about half of all violent crimes are
reported to the police and many victims struggle to secure the help they
need, we know we must do more. This week, we rededicate ourselves to
securing the full measure of justice for every crime victim, resolving
disparities in our criminal justice system, and preventing crimes before
they occur.
The incidence of crime in the United States is an affront to our
national conscience and cannot be ignored. Millions of Americans
experience violent or property crime victimization every year, and still
more are impacted as they help a loved one in their hour of need. Sadly,
children, seniors, persons with disabilities, immigrants, and
traditionally underserved communities continue to experience
disproportionately high rates of victimization. Moreover, women suffer
the vast majority of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and
rape. These outcomes are deplorable, and we must come together to build
communities where all people have the opportunity to live in safety and
security.
My Administration is committed to realizing that vision. With leadership
from the Department of Justice, we are investing in programs to prevent
crime, drug abuse, and violence in communities across our Nation. We are
partnering with organizations and agencies at every level of government
to develop robust victim services, support law enforcement, and
strengthen our criminal justice system. We issued a revised definition
of rape that will shed new light on how often this crime occurs, and we
continue to combat sexual violence and expand support for survivors.
From disrupting human trafficking networks, to fighting financial fraud,
to empowering the millions who are affected by crime every year, my
Administration is working to bring more Americans the services and
protection they deserve. For additional information, resources, and
assistance, visit www.CrimeVictims.gov.
During National Crime Victims' Rights Week, we commemorate the efforts
of all who bring hope to crime victims during their darkest hour. As we
reflect on the progress we have made toward ensuring fair treatment and
full support for all crime victims, let us renew that fundamental
American impulse to stand with those in need.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 22 through April
28, 2012, as National Crime Victims' Rights Week. I call upon all
Americans to observe this week by participating in events that raise
awareness of victims' rights and services, and by volunteering to serve
victims in their time of need.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-third day of
April, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
sixth.
BARACK OBAMA