GOV. STITT PRAISES DESIGNATION OF JOHN HOPE FRANKLIN RECONCILIATION PARK AS AACRN SITE

OKLAHOMA CITY (June 26, 2020) – Governor Kevin Stitt praised President Donald J. Trump and U.S. Secretary of the Interior David L. Bernhardt for designating the John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park as an official member of the African American Civil Rights Network (AACRN), formally recognizing the historical and national significance of the Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921 and Dr. John Hope Franklin’s work to advance the African American civil rights movement. 

"This designation will help ensure Americans are and remain aware of the tragic violence that occurred 99 years ago in Tulsa,” said Gov. Stitt. “This is a great step forward as we move toward a place of reconciliation and inspire generations to work together to fight injustice."

The African American Civil Rights Network Act, signed into law by President Trump in January 2018, authorizes the National Park Service to coordinate and facilitate federal and non-federal activities to commemorate, honor and interpret the history of the African American Civil Rights movement; the significance of the civil rights movement as a crucial element in the evolution of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; and the relevance of the African American Civil Rights movement in fostering the spirit of social justice and national reconciliation.

“I am calling on Oklahomans to carry out the Oklahoma Standard and ensure it extends to all,” said Gov. Stitt. “We must raise our children to love all people and educate them about our history so that future generations can avoid the division that has plagued us.”

The full press release from the Department of the Interior is available here.