Government of Canada supports Victims and Survivors of Crime Week

A well-functioning criminal justice system is one that serves all Canadians, protects victims and their families, and creates a safer and stronger Canada for everyone.

Today, the Honourable David Lametti, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, and the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, launched Victims and Survivors of Crime Week with its theme of “Recognizing Courage, Renewing Commitment”.

The goal of Victims and Survivors of Crime Week is to raise awareness nationwide about the issues facing victims and survivors of crime and the services, programs, and laws in place to help them and their families. It is also an opportunity to acknowledge the important work of victim service providers and other criminal justice professionals who assist victims of crime.

This year, instead of an in-person symposium, Justice Canada is hosting a virtual Victims and Survivors of Crime Week event online. Also as part of this week’s activities, the Government of Canada is providing financial support to 90 projects all across the country. Under Justice Canada’s Victims Fund, more than $790,000 will help raise awareness about the needs of victims and the services available to victims, survivors, and families from coast-to-coast-to-coast.

The 2020 theme recognizes that it takes great courage for victims and survivors of crime and their families to share their stories and to persevere in the aftermath of crime. The theme also recognizes that countless professionals and volunteers across Canada work to empower victims and survivors of crime, advocate on behalf of victims, and deliver effective services despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.