In honor of Crime Victims’ Rights week, the Cass County Prosecutor’s Office hosted a flagpole ceremony to honor victims who had lost their lives to crime in the county Thursday. Berrien County hosted a similar ceremony Friday.

Our editorial board would like to thank Cass and Berrien counties for hosting these ceremonies and showing the families of victims that their loved ones are not forgotten.

In the 24-hour news cycle, it can be easy to see one tragedy, be affected and move on quickly. But for those who knew the victims, things are not so easy. As one daughter of parents who died in a car crash said at Thursday’s ceremony, “Everything can make you think of them.”

It is important to remember that every life has meaning and that every person makes an impact. It is especially important to remember that in the small towns that we cover here at Leader Publications.

When we heard the 102 names of the victims who had lost their lives in Cass County to crime since 1977 during Thursday’s ceremony, we were reminded that each and every one of those victims had families and friends, and had made an impact to those who knew them.

We were also reminded of why we do what we do. As journalists, it is our job to tell the stories of the victims and help hold those who hurt them accountable for their actions. It is our hope that in some small way, our reporting can keep the names of victims alive.

We thank Berrien and Cass counties for the reminder.

Though Crime Victims’ Rights week may be over, we encourage our readers to remember and honor those who lose their lives and support their families year round.

To the families of those 102 victims, we hope you find peace. We will remember your loved ones.

Opinions expressed are those of general manager Ambrosia Neldon, managing editor Sarah Culton, sports editor Scott Novak and reporter Adam Droscha.