Philadelphia, PA-- April 22-28 is National Crime Victims' Rights Week-- a time for all Americans to learn about victimization, reflect on the cost of crime to our society and promote laws, policies and programs to help victims of crime rebuild their lives. The week's theme, "Victims' Rights: Every Victim. Every Time," envisions a strengthened commitment to the over 80,000 crime victims in Philadelphia.

This year, the Philadelphia Coalition for Victim Advocacy (PCVA), along with other community partners, has scheduled a number of events to honor victims, survivors and their advocates.

• On Friday, April 20th the annual Candle Lighting Ceremony will be held at The First Unitarian Universal Church at 2135 Chestnut Street. The Ceremony begins at 6:30 P.M. All Philadelphia victims and survivors are encouraged to attend the vigil to share and gain strength.
• On Monday, April 23rd at 11:00 A.M. Philadelphia victims and advocates will rally on the steps of the Capitol Building in Harrisburg to draw attention to the issues affecting victims and survivors in Pennsylvania.
• On Wednesday, April 24th victim advocates, criminal justice and allied professionals and volunteers from across the city will gather at Colleen's Restaurant at 2200 Ben Franklin Parkway for the annual luncheon. Awards will be presented to professionals in victim's services, media, healthcare, justice, and business. The luncheon runs from 11:00 A.M-2:00 P.M.