On Thursday, March 21st, the South Carolina Victim Assistance Network (SCVAN), the South Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (SCCADVASA), elected officials, community partners, victims of crime, and their families and friends will rally at the South Carolina State House to raise awareness about the barriers faced by victims of violent crime throughout the Palmetto State.

Initially spurred by the Bowen Turner rape cases out of Orangeburg which gained national attention in 2022, organizers felt it important to continue this rally as an annual event to advocate for all victims of violent crime.

“Despite having its own “Victims Bill of Rights” in the state constitution, South Carolina continues to fail these victims both in finding justice and in the ability to easily access the help and services they need,” said Sarah Ford, the Legal Director of SCVAN. “Laws don’t mean anything for crime victims unless they are consistently asserted and enforced. It is critical that victims know their rights and are aware of organizations, like ours, who can help in the aftermath of violent crime.” 

Individuals will gather for the third annual Victims Matter Rally beginning at 9:00 AM on Thursday, March 21 on the south steps of the South Carolina State House (facing Gervais Street).