Dear Editor, We are writing to express our profound gratitude to Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat, House Speaker Charles McCall, and House Appropriation and Budget Chairman Kevin Wallace for their roles in securing the most significant state investment in adult and child victim services in Oklahoma’s history totaling $17 million. Their actions mark a crucial turning point for direct services for victims of abuse in our state.
Oklahoma leads the nation in domestic violence rates, with over 50% of residents experiencing some form of domestic violence in their lifetimes. Additionally, our state ranks among the highest for domestic violence homicides. Domestic and family violence includes economic, physical, sexual, emotional, and psychological abuse of children, adults, or elders (HIH National Library of Medicine: Domestic Violence, 2023). This significant investment by our legislature and Governor demonstrates a clear understanding that domestic violence affects us all, not just in some households.
In fact, the economic costs to our workplaces and the social costs seen in our children’s schools and local service providers is staggering - nationally the cost is estimated to be over $12 billion per year in the US. Domestic Violence is a public safety issue that places a hefty burden on law enforcement, our courts, healthcare providers, and our criminal justice system.
Ensuring that victims get the support they need keeps our communities strong and safe. This investment shows a commitment to justice and compassion, making sure everyone has a fair shot at a better life. By tackling the root causes of domestic violence and helping survivors and their children find hope and healing, we are working to break the generational cycle of abuse and educate our communities that any abuse is not okay.
As Executive Directors of rural certified victim services agencies in Ponca City and Chandler, we extend a personal word of gratitude to Speaker McCall and Chairman Wallace for their exemplary commitment of ensuring that rural agencies received an equitable share of funding, reflecting rural Oklahoma values and needs.
On behalf of End Violence Oklahoma and the many individuals and families we serve, we thank you both for your leadership and vision for a stronger Oklahoma that stands against domestic violence.
Sincerely, Renee Clemons Executive Director of Project Safe,Chandler and Tara Tyler Chair, End Violence Oklahoma, Ponca City