Some Thoughts From a Survivor of a Homicide Victim
RE: Filmmakers’ Forum for Sensitivity to Crime Victims

By Roberta Roper

While we, the victims and survivors of homicide victims are fully aware that information that is in the public domain may be used by the media without permission, we would challenge you to higher ethical standards of professional conduct. Many victims and survivors would be far more willing to cooperate with the media or filmmakers if a more respectful, non-exploitive relationship were established.

We know the reality is that our stories may be today’s “hot” news item, and the use of them may be fueled by the quest for higher ratings or a breaking story. However, for us, it is about our loved one, or the most painful, traumatic experience of our lives. Having endured terrible suffering and loss, no victim or family should be further victimized by the misguided, uninformed motives of the media or a filmmaker. The story you will report or film is about our loved one, and often affects how we will be able to rebuild our shattered lives.

At the same time, we acknowledge the power of the media or filmmaker to make an enormous contribution for the good of society. The public, other victims and criminal justice professionals can be educated. Needed services and referrals can be accessed. We would just request that filmmakers always ask themselves how they would wish to be treated if they or a loved was the focus of the story.

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