To The Editor:
Unfortunately, violence exists everywhere in our world. All countries have their own ways of defining abuse and neglect and they have their own unique ways of responding to family and sexual violence. While I am currently located in one of the most beautiful countries in the world – New Zealand – family and sexual violence is a major issue that affects the lives of many New Zealanders and creates significant social and economic costs across the wider society. This year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) theme, Serving Victims, Building Trust, Restoring Hope, presents the opportunity to highlight the importance of providing needed services at the earliest stages of victimization regardless of where you are living in this world. We know from experience that early intervention helps prevent both further victimization and involvement in the criminal justice system, thus addressing the cycle of violence and restoring hope for the future.
When we take the time to focus on the victim in the aftermath of crime – to address their needs for safety and justice – we can begin to build trust and restore the hope of those victims and their communities. We all play a role in helping victims as they rebuild their lives. Certainly, my former community, the Mad River Valley, has demonstrated this time and time again. This community has indeed helped my family rebuild our life in the aftermath of violent crime.
This year, let’s commemorate this important week by getting to know our neighbors. Take the time to listen, to explore and to value differences. We should be empowering our community by reaching out and creating connections. Recognize that we all have a role to play.
There are many events taking place this month to honor victims and those who provide much needed services. For more information contact the Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence (www.vtnetwork.org/) or the Vermont Center for Crime Victim Services (www.ccvs.state.vt.us/).
Susan S. Russell
Former Warren resident
