Stella Chivikas is an advocate for victims of violent crime. She works with the victims from last year’s Kalamazoo shooting spree. She fights for them. And gives them a voice.
"I love helping people. It's something that's always been instilled in me," Chivikas said.
She says the annual crime victim’s vigil gives her and the families of victims hope that their voices will be heard. Victims were allowed to come up to the microphone to remember those they lost. Some even brought photos of the people they loved... Lost too soon.
"It's their way of remembering their loved ones,” Chivikas said. “And for the victims that do come up to the microphone to talk, it's kind of a healing session for them."
Attorney General Bill Schuette says hearing the victims stories is a grounding experience.
"It's incredibly sobering. It really rocks you in the most sobering of ways," Schuette said.
He says the event is meant to serve as a strong reminder that victims have rights too.
Joe Grazioli's son was murdered in 2001. It's a cold case. He says often in the legal system, sensitivity is lost for the victims and their loved ones.
"Many times they're asked to testify or do things they really don't want to do. Or make them feel uncomfortable," Grazioli said.
Chivikas says an often forgotten right is a speedy trial:
"Some of our cases don't go to trial for a year or over a year," Chivikas said.
She says most importantly this vigil brings those who have lost or been hurt together... And reminds them:
"They're not alone. And there are people that care," Chivikas said.
