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Crime survivors gather for healing vigil at capitol

Posted at 4:41 PM, Feb 13, 2018
and last updated 2018-02-13 12:59:50-05

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice united friends, family members, and advocates Tuesday at Florida's capitol.

As many as 200 people gathered for a healing vigil at the fourth floor rotunda.

The event allowed people who have experienced loss to meet for a survivors panel to talk about healing through action and recovery.

Advocates used the opportunity to address the need for trauma recovery centers and new investments in public safety strategies with legislatures.

"For far too long, far too many crime survivors, crime victims, have felt unseen by the justice system, and we want to make sure they're at the center," said Shakyra Diaz, the managing director at Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice.

Crime Survivors began in California and continues to gain nationwide support.