This week we had the opportunity to speak with Tulsa voters at a town hall meeting held by City Councilor Connie Dodson about how SQ 794 would improve the rights of crime victims. Attendees expressed their support at the meeting, which was followed by a recent endorsement by the Tulsa City Council to unanimously support SQ 794.

In honor of Independence Day, we remember the sacrifice many made to ensure the United States became an independent nation. This week, we showed our appreciation to law enforcement community for their ongoing commitment to protect and serve our country. 

The Marsy’s Law for Oklahoma team has been hard at work recruiting support across the state to expand victims’ rights.  We have recently met with elected officials, district attorney staff, crime victim advocates, non-profit leaders and community activists to discuss SQ 794. We joined Juneteenth celebrations, potluck dinners and recently spoke at the Oklahoma State Trooper Association state meeting and to faith leaders at the Oklahoma Conference of Churches.

As November approaches, it’s important to know what State Question 794 does and what it does not do.

Marsy’s Law for Oklahoma believes that connecting with our communities is among the most important things we do. That’s why we’re proud to have the support of several County Commissioners across Oklahoma. In addition to preserving local infrastructure, commissioners also work with members of law enforcement to keep communities safe.

Scott Mitchell, an analyst for Oklahoma City’s News9, launched a podcast series called Forgotten Voices.  According to Scott, the series will highlight important stories of victims of crimes “in their own words”.  He added the series purpose is  “to bypass the media filter and let victims and victims’ advocates speak directly to Oklahomans. “

The Oklahoma Legislature adjourned three weeks ahead of schedule this year, closing out their work on May 3, 2018, but support for Marsy’s Law remains strong. 

Every day, people are impacted by crime in Oklahoma. Although the severity of crimes range from white collar crimes to violent acts, every story matters in demonstrating the need to provide Constitutional protections to victims and their families and ensuring they have a voice in the criminal justice system. Your voice matters a great deal in helping tell the story that our criminal justice system is set up to protect the rights of the accused criminal, not the rights of the victim. 

Volunteers are the reason Marsy’s Law for Oklahoma enjoys such widespread support across the state. Fighting for victims’ rights and passage of State Question 794 can only be possible with the involvement of our many supporters, and we’d like to take a moment to highlight one of our most active volunteers, Cleveland County chair, James Harrison.

James also volunteers for the Oklahoma Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. He is called to service, and we are extremely grateful for his support. Please take a moment to read his letter.

In Oklahoma, hundreds of volunteers and advocates are using National Crime Victims Rights’ Week (NCVRW) to highlight their support for November’s State Question 794. NCVRW isn’t just about events and activities, but it also highlights the determination of our supporters to provide a better path for crime victims and their families.