Media Release

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - In recognition of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, the Alachua County Victim Services Rape Crisis Center, the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office Trauma Intervention and Special Services, along with other local victim service providers are hosting a Candlelight Vigil on Tuesday, April 8, 2014, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The vigil will be held at the Alachua County Health Department (217 SE 24th Street, Gainesville).

The vigil will start with a welcome from Alachua County Sheriff Sadie Darnell, followed by poetry, readings, music, and testimony from survivors.  The vigil will conclude with a candle lighting ceremony around the flag pole located in front of Community Support Services.

Exhibits will include the Symbolic Empty Seat at The Table, and memorial Forget Me Not bookmarks.

Alachua County Victim Services Director, Loretta Golden said, “The vigil provides an opportunity for family and friends, who have experienced the sudden and unexpected death of a loved one to share their memories, remember with peace and acknowledge the emptiness left by pain and grief.” She continued “Victims of sexual assault and survivors of other violent crime silenced by the trauma of victimization are encouraged and inspired to be silent no longer as they continue the journey to healing.”

Click to view the event flyer.

Click for more information about the Alachua County Victim Services and Rape Crisis Center.

For more information, contact Loretta Golden at 352-264-6760.