National Day of Remembrance – September 24, 2023
National Day of Remembrance
The National Day of Remembrance for Homicide Victims, observed annually on September 25th, is a solemn occasion dedicated to honoring and remembering those who have lost their lives to acts of violence. This day serves as a platform for communities, families, and individuals to come together in solidarity, offering support to survivors and acknowledging the profound impact of homicide on individuals, families, and society as a whole.
Origins of the Day
The National Day of Remembrance for Homicide Victims traces its roots back to Parents of Murdered Children, Inc. (POMC), an organization founded in 1978 by Charlotte and Bob Hullinger after their daughter, Lisa, was tragically murdered. POMC was established to provide support and resources for families who have lost a loved one to homicide. Over the years, POMC worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by survivors of homicide victims.
In 2007, Congress officially designated September 25th as the National Day of Remembrance for Homicide Victims through a unanimous resolution. This recognition marked a significant milestone in acknowledging the pain and grief experienced by survivors and provided a national platform for collective remembrance and support.
National Day of Remembrance at Crime Stoppers of Houston
Observance of the National Day of Remembrance for Homicide Victims varies across communities and organizations. Events may include candlelight vigils, memorial services, workshops, art exhibits, and awareness campaigns. Crime Stoppers of Houston partners with the Houston chapter of Parents of Murdered Children each year to put on a National Day of Remembrance event to honor the victims of murder in Harris County for the previous year (September 2022-August 2023). While the primary focus is the victims lost for that year, all surviving family members of homicide are invited to attend the event held at the Crime Stoppers of Houston headquarters.
This Year’s Event:
At this year’s event we will have a new interactive exhibit for family members to write their loved one’s name on a paper butterfly and place it on an elegant hedge alongside fellow victims. The community will be able to pay tribute to the victims placed on the hedge throughout the month of October. Additionally, each victim’s family present at the event will have the opportunity to tell attendees about their loved one ahead of placing their butterfly onto the hedge wall. We will also hear from a victim’s mother who has worked hard this year to advocate for the rights of victims in Harris County and across the State of Texas. We invite all victims, advocates, and the community at large to attend our event. These activities provide opportunities for survivors to share their stories, remember their loved ones, and connect with others who have experienced similar loss.
When: September 24th at 6pm CST
Where: 3001 Main St, Houston, TX 77002
Further Details: Please feel free to bring a picture of your loved one to be displayed at Crime Stoppers during the event.
Overall, the National Day of Remembrance for Homicide Victims serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of homicide on individuals, families, and communities. It fosters a sense of unity, compassion, and advocacy, ultimately contributing to a more supportive and empathetic society for survivors of homicide victims.
Posted by on 20 Sep 2023