The Survivor Walk marked the beginning of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, which runs through April 24. – Under sunshine and a chilly breeze on Belle Isle, a small but determined group gathered Sunday morning — a mix of survivors, families, and advocates — to take part in a walk that organizers said is about more than just moving forward. It’s about moving forward together.
“We use this kick-off event to celebrate victims — give them time to reflect on what they went through and where they’re at now,” said Mechelle Donahoo, director of victim services for the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office.
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The Survivor Walk marked the beginning of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, which runs through April 24.
Participants included representatives from the U.S. Attorney’s Office Eastern District, Detroit Police, the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office and the Detroit Crime Victims’ Action Team, along with advocacy groups.
“We’re just here to stand in solidarity with the victims and we know that advocacy and healing kind of go hand-in-hand,” said Santana Schneider, co-chair of Advocates for Social Justice.
This year’s theme is “Listen. Act. Protect.” It reflects what organizers said is the far-reaching impact of crime on victims and their families.
“They’re financially impacted. They might be displaced and they might be emotionally impacted,” Donahoo said.
The weeklong observance, held annually across the country, is led by the federal Office for Victims of Crime and aims to raise awareness of victims’ rights while honoring those who support them.
“We’re here for you. We support you. We see you. We hear you,” Donahoo said.
“Thank you — all of you — for your collective work restoring dignity, respect, and humanity to people within our state who have been abused, murdered, and victimized. Thank you for keeping the focus on them,” said Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy. “Survivors matter. And we must be accountable to them. We cannot just give lip service to victims and public safety. We must mean it. We must be out and bold about it. We must live it.”
Since 1981, National Crime Victims’ Rights Week has challenged communities to confront and remove barriers to justice for victims, while recognizing the progress of the victims’ rights movement. This year also marks the 42nd anniversary of the Victims of Crime Act, signed into law in 1984, which established funding and resources for victim services nationwide.
Events will continue throughout the week, including a community resource fair at 12 p.m. on Friday, April 24, at the Wayne County Criminal Justice Center in Detroit. The event will feature vendors, food trucks and support services for victims and families.
Shauntaye Phillips, whose husband Harold Phillips was killed in a deadly animal attack, will speak at the event about her experience and advocacy.
After the program, the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office will host a wellness event offering additional resources and support. Every event is open to the public and designed to connect victims with services while continuing to build awareness.
For more information about National Crime Victims’ Rights Week activities or services in Wayne County, call 313-224-5800.