This week (April 6-12) is National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, a week to highlight the impact that crime has on victims and our community and to advocate for more resources to help serve those affected by crime.  The National Juvenile Justice Network has just released A House Divided No More: Common Cause for Juvenile Justice Advocates, Victim Advocates, and Communities.

We believe it is important for youthful offenders to understand that the acts they commit do harm other, but we also know that youth are frequently victims of crime – both youth crime and offenses committed by adults. We know that youth who are victims of violent offenses are three times more likely to commit an offense than those who are not victimized.  And, we know that all too often the resources needed to support all victims, not just youth, are insufficient to meet their many needs.  Victims, often like youthful offenders themselves, are caught up in a justice system that can be confusing and complex and a system that seems for many, including many victims, to place an emphasis on incarceration that may not be effective in the long run.

For juvenile justice advocates, every week – not just this one – needs to be about advocating for a more just and effective system for victims as well as youthful offenders.  And, victim and juvenile justice advocates should spend less time focusing on our differences than on the things we can do together to build safer communities and a justice system that works for us all.
By Jim Moeser