April 22, 2024 - WASHINGTON - Last week, Congressman Jim Costa, Co-Chair and Co-Founder of the Crime Survivors and Justice Caucus, awarded Margarita Rocha with the Lois Haight Award of Excellence and Innovation as part of the Congressional Crime Survivors and Justice Caucus.
Since 2005, the Caucus has hosted the Crime Survivors and Justice Caucus Awards ceremony, which honors outstanding public servants who have dedicated their lives to helping victims of crime. Each Member of Congress was allowed to nominate an individual, or organization, in their district. After further review and evaluation, the Caucus presented a congressional award and honored nine individuals at the United States Capitol.
Margarita was one of eight individuals honored at the 2024 Crime Survivors and Justice Caucus ceremony. There was a total of 38 nominations from across the country made by Members of Congress.
“Margarita has dedicated her life to uplifting families and victims of crime. Under her leadership, Centro La Familia is creating a safe space for survivors to get the support they need. Margarita continues to inspire and grow the next generation of advocates to do the same. I’m proud to recognize her tireless efforts in helping the most vulnerable members of Fresno County.” said Congressman Costa.
“Growing up in a monolingual Spanish-speaking family who was often fearful of seeking help, I was determined to create a space where all could feel safe and heard. With a dedicated team at Centro La Familia, we strive daily to empower survivors, particularly those from underserved communities, from a culturally sensitive lens. We are guided by the principle: ‘we are who we serve,’ advocating for those silenced by fear and unawareness of their rights. I am deeply honored by this recognition from Congressman Costa,” said Margarita Rocha.
Margarita Rocha was nominated by Congressman Jim Costa and awarded the Lois Haight Award for Excellence and Innovation. She serves as Executive Director for Centro La Familia Advocacy Services, a local agency uplifting victims of domestic violence, human trafficking, and other serious crimes throughout Fresno County. Centro La Familia holds innovative “platicas” or conversations to empower residents to advocate on behalf of victims and their community.
In honor of former California Judge, Lois Haight, the Lois Haight Award of Excellence and Innovation honors outstanding professionals who have made a significant impact at the local, state, national, and international levels regarding the dignity, rights, and services of crime victims.
Photos and video footage from the ceremony are available HERE.
To view the livestream of the ceremony, click HERE.
The Congressional Crime Survivors and Justice Caucus is co-chaired by Representatives Jim Costa and Anthony D’Esposito. Since its establishment, the Caucus has initiated efforts to protect federal funds for the Crime Victim’s Fund, Children’s Advocacy Centers, and the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).
Source: Congressman Jim Costa
