Governor Baldacci Honors Murder Victims Statewide
Press Release
Governor John E. Baldacci proclaimed Sept. 25, 2008, as a Maine Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims during a ceremony held at the State House today. The Governor issued the proclamation in line with the inaugural National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims.
"Losing a loved one is always difficult," Governor Baldacci said. "But losing them because of an act of human violence seems unbearable. Much like many tragedies, you never expect that it will happen to you. You never think it could happen to someone you know. But, the unfortunate reality is that it can happen - and it can happen in a split second."
About 100 friends and relatives of murder victims were in the Hall of Flags for the ceremony. Governor Baldacci was joined by other speakers at the ceremony including Attorney General Steve Rowe, advocates of domestic violence prevention and family members of murder victims.
"Today marks the second annual National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims," the Governor said. "It's a day for all of us to remember their tragedies, honor their courage, and vow to help our friends, family and neighbors do whatever we can to help them rebuild their lives."
The text of the proclamation follows:
WHEREAS, in 2007, twenty-one homicides were reported in Maine; and
WHEREAS, although any death of a loved one is difficult, a death by murder is devastating; and
WHEREAS, the family and friends of murder victims cope with grief through a variety of support services including counseling, crisis intervention, professional referrals and assistance in dealing with the criminal justice system; and
WHEREAS, the Maine Chapter of the National Organization of Parents Of Murdered Children is dedicated to helping families and friends faced with the death of a loved one by providing ongoing emotional support, individual assistance, education, advocacy and information about and guidance through the criminal justice system; and
WHEREAS, the designation of a Maine Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims provides an opportunity for the people of the State of Maine to honor the memories of all murder victims, and recognize the impact on surviving family members and friends,
NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOHN E. BALDACCI, Governor of the State of Maine, do hereby proclaim September 25, 2008 as
A DAY OF REMEMBRANCE FOR MURDER VICTIMS
throughout the State of Maine, and urge all citizens to recognize this observance.
Source