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National Crime Victims’ Rights Week

Join hands in recognition of National Crime Victims' Rights Week - standing together for justice, rights and compassionate support for all victims.

Monday

April 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAnnounced annually by US DOJ Office for Victims of Crime

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYViolence Prevention

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Come together and shine a light on justice from April 18-24, during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, climaxing on April 27th. Established in 1981 by President Ronald Reagan, this week-long observance is dedicated to advancing the rights and needs of crime victims, along with promoting laws to protect these individuals and the services to support them. In the spirit of unity and compassion, we strive to uplift victims by offering empathy, expressing our ongoing commitment to justice and letting them know they are not alone. Stand strong and join us in recognizing this important week. Be a beacon of hope, strength and resilience as we navigate the road to justice together!

TIMELINE

National Crime Victims’ Rights Week Timeline

Establishment of NCVRW

President Ronald Reagan establishes National Crime Victims' Rights Week to advance the rights and needs of crime victims, and to promote protective laws and supporting services.

Victims of Crime Act (VOCA)

The U.S. Congress passes the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA), establishing the Crime Victims Fund financed by fines and penalties paid by convicted federal offenders.

Victims' Rights Amendment

Senator Jon Kyl introduces the Crime Victims' Rights Amendment, seeking to assert victims' rights in the U.S. Constitution, though it falls short of passage.

Crime Victims' Rights Act

The Crime Victims' Rights Act (CVRA) is enacted as part of the Justice for All Act, strengthening the legal protections for crime victims.

VOCA Funding Increase

Congress increases funding for the Crime Victims Fund, allowing more resources for services that directly assist victims of crime.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Crime Victims’ Rights Week

Raise Awareness through Social Media

Use your social media platforms to share information about National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. This can be as simple as sharing a post or as involved as starting an online campaign to educate others about the rights and services available to crime victims.

DONATE

Donate to organizations that support crime victims

There are many non-profit organizations that provide invaluable services to victims of crime. Making a donation not only helps these organizations continue their work, but is also a tangible way to show your support for victims' rights.

ATTEND

Attend a Virtual Vigil

Many cities and organizations hold candlelight vigils during National Crime Victims' Rights Week. Even if you can't attend in person, you can still participate virtually or light a candle at home in solidarity.

EDUCATE

Educate yourself and others

Take the initiative to learn more about the issues that crime victims face, and then share this knowledge with others. The more people know, the more they can do to help support and advocate for crime victims.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer your time

Many organizations that support crime victims need volunteers. This could involve anything from manning phone lines to providing legal assistance. Reach out to organizations in your area to see where your skills could be put to use.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is Important

Encouraging Education and Advocacy

National Crime Victims' Rights Week encourages us to educate ourselves and others on the issues that crime victims face. This knowledge empowers us to be more informed advocates, allowing us to stand up for those who may not otherwise have a voice in our society. By taking the initiative to learn more, we can become stronger allies to victims and help to foster change.

Promoting Justice and Awareness

National Crime Victims' Rights Week allows us to heighten the awareness about the rights and needs of crime victims. It's crucial to ensure these individuals receive the justice, rights, and compassionate support they deserve. By spreading information through various channels like social media, we can help to keep this important issue in the public eye.

Supporting Victims and their Families

National Crime Victims' Rights Week provides an opportunity to directly help those affected through donations and volunteering. Many organizations that support crime victims rely on the generosity of others to continue their vital services. By contributing our time or financial resources, we can provide tangible aid that makes a real difference.

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