Reno County officials to host Candle Lighting Ceremony for National Crime Victims' Rights Week

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County District Attorney's Office, Horizons Mental Health Child Advocacy Center and Bright House will host a Community Candle Lighting Ceremony Thursday, April 23, as part of National Crime Victims' Rights Week.

The event is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at the South Hutchinson Community Center, 101 West Ave C, South Hutchinson.

This year's national theme — "Listen. Act. Advocate. Protect victims, serve communities." — underscores the importance of centering survivor voices, taking meaningful action and fostering compassionate, community-driven responses to trauma.

The program will open with remarks from Reno County District Attorney Thomas Stanton and Victim-Witness Coordinator Sarah McReynolds, followed by a keynote address from Shara Gonzales, CEO of New Beginnings, Inc. The evening will conclude with a candle lighting ceremony and closing remarks from Deputy District Attorney Andrew Davidson.

National Crime Victims' Rights Week is observed April 19–25, 2026, and serves as an annual opportunity for communities across the country to reaffirm their commitment to supporting those affected by crime.

Community members are encouraged to attend and stand in solidarity with victims and survivors.

Admission is free and open to the public.