Port Washington, WI—Marsy’s Law for Wisconsin, in partnership with Ozaukee County District Attorney Benjamin Lindsay, is raising awareness about the rights available to crime victims in Wisconsin through a compelling silhouette display at the Ozaukee County Courthouse. The display will be on view on Tuesday, Jan. 28, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Attendees will encounter an interactive display of red-painted silhouettes symbolizing individuals affected by crime. Each silhouette will feature one of the rights granted by Wisconsin's Crime Victims' Rights constitutional amendment, also known as Marsy's Law. Additionally, the silhouettes will be equipped with QR codes linking individuals to Marsy's Law for Wisconsin's websites and the Wisconsin Office of Crime Victims' Services for further information.
“The silhouette exhibit shines a light on the experiences of crime victims and survivors, who may be people we know – our neighbors, coworkers, or friends,” said Nela Kalpic, State Director of Marsy’s Law for Wisconsin. “This display is designed to raise awareness about the rights protected under Marsy’s Law and the support services available through the District Attorney’s office and community organizations.”
“The Ozaukee County District Attorney’s Office is committed to seeking justice for the victims of crime and ensuring that each victim is treated with dignity and respect,” stated Benjamin Lindsay, Ozaukee County DA. “This initiative helps to educate the public about the constitutional rights of crime victims and raise awareness about the resources available through our office and within the community.
The silhouettes will be placed inside the Ozaukee County Courthouse. Each silhouette will display a specific right from Marsy’s Law, written in language easily understood by victims and the public who may not have previously engaged with the criminal justice system. Marsy’s Law rights highlighted on the silhouettes include the right to privacy, right to notice, right to confer, right to be present, right to be heard, right to know your rights, right to restitution, and right to enforce your rights.
The event begins at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 28, inside the Ozaukee County Courthouse which is, 1201 South Spring Street, Port Washington. The silhouettes will remain in the Courthouse until 3 p.m. that same day.
Media Note: Ozaukee County District Attorney Benjamin Lindsay and Marsy’s Law for Wisconsin State Director Nela Kalpic will be available for interviews on Jan. 28. For media who wish to schedule an interview with one of the participants or receive additional information please get in touch with mk@platform-communications.com.
About Marsy’s Law for Wisconsin
Marsy’s Law for Wisconsin is a grassroots coalition that championed a unique proposal to give victims of crime equal rights in our state, building on Wisconsin’s laws and history of leading on this issue. The crime victims’ rights state constitutional amendment, also known as Marsy’s Law for Wisconsin, was ratified during the April 7, 2020 election with an overwhelming 75 percent of voters in support. Marsy’s Law is named after Marsalee “Marsy” Nicholas of California who was stalked and killed by her ex-boyfriend in 1983. Only one week after her death, Marsy’s mother and brother, Henry T. Nicholas, walked into a grocery store where they were confronted by the accused murderer. The family, who had just come from a visit to Marsy’s grave, was unaware that the accused had been released on bail. To honor his sister, Dr. Nicholas has made it his life’s mission to give victims and their families constitutional protections and equal rights.