AUGUSTA — Parents, family and friends of murdered children are invited to Sunday’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week luncheon.

Sponsored by the Maine Chapter of Parents of Murdered Children, the luncheon is set to begin at noon at Le Club Calumet on West River Road. A speakers’ program will follow the luncheon.

Arthur Jette, chapter leader of the Maine Parents of Murdered Children, said in a press release that this year’s luncheon will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Victims of Crime Act. The landmark legislation, passed in 1984, affirms the nation’s commitment to restoring the balance of justice by securing legal rights, protections and services for crime victims, Jette said.

“It’s necessary to remind ourselves that our system is one of criminal justice,” Jette said. “Victims of crime need a victim justice system that has guaranteed rights.”

The POMC, incorporated in 1989, provides emotional support, education and services to family and friends of homicide victims. The chapter plans this summer to unveil the Maine Murder Victims’ Memorial Monument. Jette said there is still time for family survivors to include names of their murdered relatives.

Sunday’s luncheon is free and open to relatives and friends of homicide victims. Jette encourages those who attend to take a framed photo of the loved one taken by violence. The photos will be placed on the memorial table during the luncheon.

Those who plan to attend are asked to RSVP to Diane Gagnon at 623-8642 or email her at redcardinal1221@myfairpoint.net.


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