By Redaccion
redaccion@latinocc.com
Ventura County is joining a national movement to support survivors of crime and sexual assault, as officials mark National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
A public ceremony on April 10 will highlight efforts to fight campus sexual violence and honor local advocates.
Kinship Drives 2025 Victims’ Rights Week
The Ventura County Board of Supervisors has formally declared April 6-12, 2025, as National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW). This year’s theme, “KINSHIP,” emphasizes shared humanity in supporting survivors and highlights the importance of building compassionate connections to enhance access to justice, healing, and vital services.
“Kinship is where victim advocacy begins,” officials said in a statement. The theme reflects a nationwide effort to strengthen communities by supporting those affected by crime with empathy and action.
April is also Sexual Assault Awareness Month, dedicated to preventing sexual violence through education and advocacy. This dual observance serves as a reminder that support and prevention must go hand in hand.
To commemorate NCVRW, the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office will host a Crime Victims’ Rights Ceremony on Thursday, April 10, from 12:30 to 2:00 p.m. at Kingsmen Park, California Lutheran University. The event is free and open to the public.
Campus Assault at Center of Focus
This year’s event focuses on “Campus Sexual Assault Awareness & Prevention.” Statistics show the urgency of the issue: 43% of campus crimes involve sexual violence. Nationally, 1 in 5 college women and 1 in 16 men are sexually assaulted, yet over 90% of survivors do not report the incidents.
“The focus of this year’s event is to raise awareness and encourage action to prevent sexual assault,” said District Attorney Erik Nasarenko. “We stand with survivors, support prevention efforts, and honor those who work tirelessly to seek justice.”
The ceremony will recognize individuals and teams making a difference. Among the honorees are the Sexual Assault Response Team from the Coalition for Family Harmony, Thousand Oaks High School Resource Officer Nicholas Palomino, and the Ventura County Sexual Assault Kit Initiative team.
A special moment will feature Lily Fields, a survivor who will share her personal story to inspire others and foster solidarity.
The event will also include free food and beverages from Epic Tacos, courtesy of the Ventura County Family Justice Center Foundation.
The work of victim advocates and staff from the Crime Victims’ Assistance Unit and Family Justice Center remains essential year-round. Organizers express deep gratitude for their commitment to supporting survivors and promoting justice throughout Ventura County.
