Marsy’s Law for Ohio is commemorating National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW), from April 6–12, 2025. The LeVeque Tower in Columbus and Rock Hall in Cleveland, will be lit purple in honor of crime victims.*
Marsy’s Law, which was passed in Ohio in 2017, gives crime victims meaningful and enforceable constitutional rights equal to the rights of the accused, including the right to be notified of specific public proceedings throughout the criminal justice process and to be present and heard during those proceedings, as well as allowing victims and their families to exercise their right to be present - and heard - at court proceedings.
“No one expects to be a victim,” said Jessica Ryan, Communications Director, Marsy’s Law for Ohio, “Marsy’s Law for Ohio actively works to educate Ohioans about their rights so if the worst happens, they are knowledgeable and confident throughout the process.”
The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) leads communities throughout the country in their annual observances of NCVRW by promoting victims’ rights and honoring crime victims and those who advocate on their behalf. The 2025 theme is Connecting < KINSHIP > Healing
This year’s theme of KINSHIP is a call to action to recognize that shared humanity should be at the center of supporting all survivors and victims of crime. KINSHIP is a state of being with survivors that drives vital connections to services, rights, and healing. KINSHIP is where victim advocacy begins.
The Ohio Crime Victim Justice Center offers free legal assistance to victims. Learn more at www.ocvjc.org. For additional information about this year’s NCVRW and how to assist victims in your own community, please contact Marsy’s Law for Ohio or visit www.marsyslawforoh.com.
*Lighting Dates: