National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims

The third annual National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims will be observed on Friday, September 25, 2009. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), and hosted by the National Organization of Parents Of Murdered Children, Inc. (POMC), in partnership with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and the Maryland Crime Victims’ Resource Center (MCVRC), this special observance honors the memory of homicide victims and acknowledges the resulting long-term trauma for families, communities, and the Nation.

With support from OVC, POMC has partnered with MADD and the MCVRC to hold a day-long symposium in Washington, D.C., to educate legislators, policymakers, victim advocates, and others about the issues faced by family members who have lost a loved one to homicide. This forum will take place at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW., from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

The symposium will be followed by a candlelight observance at the National Press Club, 529 14th Street NW., from 6 to 9 p.m. Members of Congress, family members of murder victims, and representatives of victim assistance organizations will honor the memories of loved ones and provide support to survivors.

OVC Acting Director Joye Frost will speak at both the symposium and observance. Register to attend both events by calling 1–800–438–6233.