'Start By Believing' Campaign Supports Oklahoma Sexual Assault Victims

A new effort announced on Friday will bring attention and support to survivors of sexual assault. The goal of the "Start by Believing" campaign is to educate Oklahomans about the appropriate response to victims.

When a person is accused of lying or told they brought the assault on themselves, they often won't get help or take steps to have their attacker arrested, experts say.

Officials say victim-blaming is dangerous because it keeps attackers on the streets.

"Victims often feel guilty or embarrassed or feel ashamed for what happened to them, and all of those are reasons that they might not want to come forward, and that's where a campaign like this is so important," said Matthew Ballard, the district attorney for Rogers, Mayes and Craig counties.

You can get involved by making your own personal commitment or by starting your own campaign.

Click here for that information.