JUSTICE FOR VICTIMS AND SURVIVORS

Justice is inconvenient because it requires sacrifices that one finds uncomfortable. However, it is crucial to understand that, in the end, securing justice may be rewarding and empowering. Justice helps to heal wounds and validate experiences. Then again, it may also be traumatizing and draining.

At times, victims/survivors may feel or want to give up and understandably say, "I do not want to do this?" It is important to know you are not alone and that your strength could help others. Not only have victims participated in the system, but many have taken charge of changing laws. For example, Marsy's Law resulted from a murderer confronting Marsy Nicholas’ family, a week after he killed the college student. Marsy’s brother was outraged and embarked on a mission to change laws.

The U.S. Constitution guarantees constitutional rights for offenders but does not address any rights for the victims.

By Valerie Menard, M.S.

The actions of Marsy Nicholas’ murderer resulted in the most comprehensive victims' rights changes. Although this movement started in California, it spread to other states. Florida, and most states, have included or enhanced victims' rights in its constitution. A victim now has the right to a speedy trial and has the right for his/her information to remain confidential. Marsy's Law is just one of many other laws that have impacted the judicial system and its treatment of victims. Amber Alerts were also created because a victim’s family decided change was needed. Does a victim/survivor have to embark on a mission to change laws? Of course not! What is needed is participation—being present and being heard. Conversely, a victim/survivor's lack of participation speaks volumes about the difficulty one feels. If a survivor/victim pursues justice, it will be inconvenient, and one must endure to secure justice. Yes, victims/survivors may need to go to the courthouse several times, change locks, or even move. Survivors will have to participate in the system. It is unfair. It is not correct. It is inconvenient, but it is necessary. The victim's cooperation and contribution are the most potent pieces of any case. It would only be fitting that this year's Victims Right Week theme is Survivor Voices: Elevate. Engage. Effect Change.

The Broward Victim’s Rights Coalition will hold a vigil on Tuesday, April 25, 2023, at 5:30 P.M., at the Long Key Nature Center, located at 3501 SW 130 Ave. Davie, FL 33330 (The Garden of Reflection). This tribute will honor crime victims and survivors as part of the National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. The event is open to the public.

▸ Valerie Menard is the Miramar Police Department’s Victim Advocate Program Coordinator. She can be reached at vmenard@miramarpd.org. To reach the Miramar Police Department’s Victim Services Unit, call 954-602-4130.