April 12, 2003
Dear Friends:
I am honored to send my best wishes as you celebrate the remarkable achievements of the men and women being recognized today. Through their hard work, unwavering commitment, and selfless acts of compassion, these extraordinary individuals have worked miracles in the lives of crime victims.
I am also humbled that you have chosen this occasion to honor my husband's legacy to victims of crime. In appointing his Task Force on Victims of Crime in 1982, he saw the grave inequities in the justice system's-and society's-approach to crime and victimization. I am proud that the Task Force has been associated with many positive and far-reaching changes. Its recommendations have spurred the passage of countless laws that benefit victims, including the federal Victims of Crime Act, which supports thousands of local victim assistance programs across the country.
I am heartened by the dedication of the thousands of victim advocates who work so hard everyday: Healers like Joyce Miller, Mary Lawrence, Sister Marcian Diesenroth, and Francis and Carole Carrington; victims' rights champions like Steve Twist and Mel Johnson; justice system professionals like the men and women of the Arizona U.S. Attorney's Office, and courageous souls like Kimberly Wisseman.
At the first National Crime Victims' Rights Week ceremony in 1983, my husband extolled the heroism of victim advocates. "You've acted in the highest tradition of our country," he said. "By your courage and selflessness, you've done your nation a great service." Here we are, 20 years later, and your acts of bravery and caring have become their own high tradition.
On behalf of my husband, I salute each and every one of you for your inestimable contribution. You have made the world a better place.
Sincerely,
Nancy Reagan