AG Pruitt on Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Attorney General Scott Pruitt today asked Oklahomans to participate in “Wear Teal Day” Monday, April 8, to raise awareness and show support of  survivors during Sexual Assault Awareness Month in April.

Since 2001, Sexual Assault Awareness Month has been observed across the nation to raise awareness of sexual violence and to help educate the public about prevention. The color teal and the teal ribbon represent awareness about sexual violence. For many, this color symbolizes hope, healing, trustworthiness and protection.

Sexual assault and abuse includes any type of sexual activity without consent and can be verbal, visual or anything that forces unwanted sexual contact or attention. According to the National Institute for Justice, most victims know their offender and a majority of assaults go unreported each year.

Victims are urged to report the crimes to local law enforcement and are encouraged to seek help.  Many resources are available across the state. If you or someone you know needs help, please call the statewide 24-hour hotline at (800) 522-SAFE.

The Attorney General’s Victim Services Unit has administered funding and certification for domestic and sexual violence programs throughout the state since 2005. Throughout the year, the unit provides training for law enforcement, prosecutors and shelter workers as well as oversees the Address Confidentiality Program, the Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE) program and the Oklahoma Victim Assistance Academy.

The mission of the AG’s Victim Services Unit is to improve services for Oklahoma crime victims and families who have suffered injustice at the hands of an offender.