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News
releases from the Mary Byron Foundation Victims’ Rights Leaders Elected to NVCAN Board of Directors (Louisville, KY) – Two of the most visible leaders in the national victims’ rights movement were recently elected to the board of directors of the National Victims’ Constitutional Amendment Network (NVCAN). John and Pat Byron of Louisville became staunch supporters of victims’ rights following the murder of their daughter, Mary, in December 1993. NVCAN has played a key role in the passage of constitutional amendments in 32 states. These amendments give victims participatory rights in the criminal justice process. The organization is also the driving force behind SJR 35, a federal amendment for victims’ rights. Mary Byron was murdered on her 21st birthday by a man who had sexually assaulted her, a man she thought was still in jail. Since their daughter’s killing, the Byrons have worked publicly for victims’ rights at every level of government. Their support helped establish automated victim notification (VINEÒ) programs in more than 30 states. They are also co-founders of the Mary Byron Foundation, an organization that seeks funding and support for innovative programs designed to stop domestic violence. Pat Byron said she and her husband look forward to working for passage of SJR 35, an amendment that will keep crime victims’ informed of, and involved in, criminal justice processes. “The proposed federal constitutional amendment is the single most important piece of victims’ rights legislation currently pending in Congress, or any state,” she said. “John and I are honored to be leaders in a movement that will significantly improve the way victims are treated in our criminal justice system.” Roberta Roper, president of the Maryland-based Stephanie Roper Foundation and chairwoman of the NVCAN, said the Byrons understand what it takes to make a difference in the lives of crime victims. “The Byrons’ election to our board will help NVCAN improve outreach and education to victims, those who serve them, and the public about the need for a constitutional amendment for victims’ rights,” Roper said. “Their experiences as survivors of a horrendous crime, and as advocates for justice for all victims, will help ensure the successful passage of this federal constitutional amendment.” About the Mary Byron Foundation The Mary Byron Foundation is a public charity created to help fund and support programs and services designed to end domestic violence. Contributions enable the Foundation to fund education, new technology, and enhanced court and criminal justice procedures throughout the country. For more information, contact Marcia Roth, (502) 992-3444, or at www.marybyronfoundation.org. For more information about the National Victims’ Constitutional Amendment Network, contact Nancy Lewis at 800/529-8226, or visit the NCVAN Website at www.nvcan.org.
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