Westchester County Observes National Crime Victims' Rights Week and Sexual Assault Awareness Month

The Westchester County Department of Probation is observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) from April 19 through April 25. Since 1981, this annual observance has called on communities across the nation to confront and remove barriers to justice for all crime victims, while recognizing the progress of the victims’ rights movement and reflecting on the strides made in supporting victims and survivors.

This year’s theme, “Listen. Act. Advocate. Protect victims, serve communities,” serves as a powerful call to action—reminding us that meaningful support begins with listening to victims, taking decisive action to address their needs, and advocating for their rights. It also underscores the importance of a victim-centered approach and reinforces our shared responsibility to foster safe, supportive communities.

Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is a time to reaffirm our commitment to ensuring every victim is heard, supported and treated with dignity. This year’s theme—‘Listen. Act. Advocate.’—reminds us that real progress requires not only compassion, but action. Westchester County remains dedicated to strengthening services, supporting survivors and working alongside our partners to build safer, more just communities for all.”

Department of Probation Commissioner Rocco Pozzi said: “National Crime Victims’ Rights Week calls on us to reaffirm our commitment to victims and survivors. Guided by this year’s theme—‘Listen. Act. Advocate.’—we are reminded of our responsibility to ensure victims are heard, supported and protected. We commend the professionals, community partners, advocates and law enforcement whose tireless work strengthens our communities and moves us closer to justice for all.”

As part of this observance, the Westchester County Probation Department invites staff and community members to participate in a donation drive throughout the month of April to benefit survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and human trafficking. A donation box will be located on the 7th floor of the Westchester County Courthouse, 111 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. in White Plains, from April 20 through April 24. Donations of essential toiletries and personal care items are encouraged.

April is also recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). In 2026, SAAM marks its 25th anniversary with the theme: “25 Years Stronger: Looking Back, Moving Forward.” This milestone highlights the progress made in raising awareness and supporting survivors, while emphasizing the continued work needed to prevent sexual violence and strengthen response efforts.

The Probation Department will also observe National Denim Day on April 29 by encouraging staff to wear denim as a visible show of solidarity with victims and survivors of sexual assault. Denim Day is a global campaign that began in response to a 1998 Italian court ruling and continues to challenge harmful myths surrounding sexual violence through awareness and education.

Together, we stand with victims and survivors. Together, we listen, act and advocate for justice.