FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  April 25, 2023

SACRAMENTO — California Governor Gavin Newsom issued a proclamation recognizing April 23 – April 29, 2023, as Crime Victims’ Rights Week in California.

In a letter, Newsom wrote:

“Each year, California joins states across the country to observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and show our support for crime victims and survivors recovering from the physical, emotional, and financial trauma of violent crime. This year’s theme, “Survivor Voices: Elevate, Engage, Effect Change” embodies the work our state does to help create a path forward for victims and survivors.

California has been a leader in victim services since 1965, when our state established the first victim compensation program in the nation. Following our visionary lead, every state now has a similar program to assist victims of violent crime in recovering from its many impacts, including physical, emotional, and financial losses.

Crime Victims’ Rights Week is an opportunity to recognize and thank all those who work to preserve and promote crime victims’ rights. Let us honor the energy, perseverance, and commitment that launched the victims’ rights movement and recommit to supporting victims and survivors in their journeys to recovery and justice.”

“We would like to thank Governor Newsom for his support in assisting victims of crimes and their families,” said California Victim Compensation Board (CalVCB) Executive Officer Lynda Gledhill. “California continues to lead the way in providing victim assistance and services.”

In Fiscal Year 2021-22, CalVCB received 39,015 applications and paid $40.3 million in compensation.

In 1965, California was the first state in the nation to establish a victim compensation program. California was also the first to open a hospital-based rape treatment center and a domestic violence shelter.

###

The California Victim Compensation Board (CalVCB) provides reimbursement for crime-related expenses to victims who suffer physical injury or the threat of physical injury as a result of violent crime. CalVCB helps crime victims and their families cover unforeseen expenses such as medical bills, mental health treatment, funeral and burial expenses, income loss and more. CalVCB also administers the Forced or Involuntary Sterilization Compensation Program, which financially compensates survivors of state-sponsored sterilization. To learn more about CalVCB, visit victims.ca.gov.