“Making a Difference” Award

Parents of Murdered Children – a national organization that offers support & advocacy for families who have faced that ultimate tragedy – gave Gov. Janet Napolitano the “Making A Difference” Award. The honor goes to those who have done extraordinary work in the area of victims’ rights. The presentation was made at the organization’s annual conference last Friday in Phoenix.

Parents of Murdered Children (POMC) cited the Governor’s work to enhance the rights of victims during criminal proceedings, including legislation that mandates that Superior Court judges read the Arizona Victims’ Bill of Rights in open court. Additionally, through legislation, Gov. Napolitano made available free police reports to victims’ families. Arizona is also the 1st state to have an adviser for victims’ rights on the governor’s staff.

“I’m proud to be standing with you, but I also wish that none of us had to be here today, & that the pain of what has happened to your families could be erased. But we know it can’t be.” Gov. Napolitano added, “What we can do now and for the future is to make sure victims are not only remembered, but that their families have the care & support they need.”

To that end, the Governor – in her role as Chair of the National Governors Association – is requesting all governors to urge their respective congressional delegations to endorse HRES222. House Resolution 222, introduced by Arizona’s Congressman John Shadegg & Congressman Steve Chabot from Ohio would create a National Day of Remembrance to honor those affected by violent crime.