North Carolina U.S. Attorneys Attend Ceremony to Observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April 19 to 25, 2026

RALEIGH, N.C. - In April, the Justice Department's Office for Victims of Crime leads communities all across the country in observing National Crime Victims' Rights Week (NCVRW). This year's observance takes place April 19 to 25, 2026.

NCVRW began in 1981 to acknowledge, honor, and remember crime victims, promote victims' rights, and recognize those who work with and advocate on behalf of victims of crime. It also serves to promote policies and programs that help victims of crime. This year's NCVRW theme, "Listen. Act. Advocate." reminds us to listen carefully to victims' stories, provide them with meaningful support, and advocate for justice on their behalf.

To commemorate NCVRW, the North Carolina Victim Assistance Network and the Interagency Council of North Carolina sponsored a ceremony in Raleigh remembering crime victims and recognizing outstanding individuals who have provided superior service to victims and survivors. U.S. Attorneys for the Eastern, Middle, and Western Districts of North Carolina attended the ceremony to reinforce the United States Justice Department's commitment to securing justice for crime victims.

"As we hold criminals accountable in our job to do justice, we remain acutely aware of the victims left in the wake of this violence. We recognize and support victims, and hope our actions give them some measure of peace." said Ellis Boyle, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina.

"Our victims and their families are at the center of everything we do," said Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. "A lot of our work is not what you see in the headlines, but behind-the-scenes work to support our victims. After all, no one plans to be the victim of a crime; no one is prepared for it. Connecting victims to vital services is key, and this year, I am proud to formally thank our service provider partners who help us in that effort."

"Each year we observe NCVRW to honor the resilience of survivors and raise awareness of victims' rights and the importance of community support in the healing process," said Dan Bishop, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina. "The criminal justice system plays an important role in supporting victims and removing barriers to justice. We are privileged to participate in today's event and humbly reminded of our responsibility to fulfill the theme of this year's NCVRW to 'Listen. Act. Advocate.'"

Elizabeth Watson, Executive Director of the North Carolina Victim Assistance Network, commented, "During Crime Victims' Rights Week, we stand with people whose lives have been harmed by violence. Listening to their voices, believing their experiences, and collaborating with community partners who are vital to supporting victims and strengthening our communities. Together, we uphold victims' rights and make sure their voices are heard. We are grateful to collaborate with our partners on this event."

A copy of this press release is located on our website.