Marsy’s Law video “Purple Light” reminds public that victims’ struggle continues during pandemic

MADISON – Prominent Wisconsin survivor and victims’ rights advocate Teri Jendusa-Nicolai has joined in a nationwide effort to raise awareness of the challenges that victims face during the current public health crisis. In a video released online today in conjunction with National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, Jendusa-Nicolai joins victims and advocates from around the country in recognizing that victims’ struggle continues during the ongoing Caronavirus pandemic. “Purple Light,” the minute-long video released by Marsy’s Law For All, features messages from crime victims and advocates, recorded in their homes.

Jendusa-Nicolai, who became one of the state’s most prominent victims’ rights advocates after surviving a brutal attack by her ex-husband, joins other survivors and advocates in the powerful reminder of the importance of crime victims’ rights. “We still need equal rights,” Teri says in the video, “even though we may feel separated and apart right now.” Watch “Purple Light,” below:

Earlier this month, Wisconsin saw an overwhelming victory for victims’ rights, when 75 percent of Wisconsin residents cast votes in favor of the proposed crime victims’ constitutional amendment commonly known as Marsy’s Law for Wisconsin. Over 1.1 million Wisconsin residents cast votes in favor of the measure in the spring election, approving the amendment with a vast margin of more than 700,000 votes.

The bipartisan victims’ rights amendment was approved in 2019 for placement on the April 2020 ballot after passing the Wisconsin State Senate and Assembly with broad bipartisan support in two consecutive legislative sessions. The overwhelming ratification vote marked the final procedural step for the now approved constitutional amendment.

 

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About Marsy’s Law for Wisconsin

Marsy’s Law for Wisconsin is a grassroots coalition that has developed 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. 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. In an effort to honor his sister, Dr. Nicholas has made it his life’s mission to give victims and their families constitutional protections and equal rights.

Victims and supporters interested in sharing their stories can email [email protected].