National Crime Victims' Rights Week, 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 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.

(Presidential Sig.)B