The African American/Black population in Oklahoma has long played a pivotal role in shaping the state’s culture, economy, and identity. Yet, systemic barriers continue to hinder progress in key areas. In this blog, we explore ten critical issues affecting Black communities in Oklahoma and how addressing these challenges aligns with legislative priorities. By shedding light on these issues, we aim to foster dialogue, inspire action, and drive meaningful change.

1. Economic Disparities: Breaking the Cycle of Inequity

Economic disparities remain one of the most pressing issues. Black Oklahomans face systemic barriers to high-paying jobs, entrepreneurship opportunities, and access to financial capital. According to recent studies, the median household income for Black families in Oklahoma is significantly lower than the state average, exacerbating wealth gaps.

Legislative Priority: Support workforce development programs and initiatives that provide funding and mentorship for Black-owned businesses.

2. Education Inequities: Closing the Achievement Gap

Many predominantly Black schools in Oklahoma are underfunded and understaffed, leading to lower academic outcomes. This lack of investment perpetuates cycles of poverty and limits access to higher education opportunities.

Legislative Priority: Increase funding for schools in underserved communities and support scholarships targeting minority students.

3. Healthcare Access: Bridging the Gap

Black Oklahomans experience higher rates of chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes, often due to limited access to quality healthcare. Disparities in insurance coverage and healthcare resources further widen this gap.

Legislative Priority: Expand Medicaid and advocate for programs addressing health inequities.

4. Criminal Justice Reform: Fighting for Fairness

Black individuals in Oklahoma are disproportionately impacted by over-policing, racial profiling, and mass incarceration. The state’s criminal justice policies have contributed to systemic injustices that destabilize families and communities.

Legislative Priority: Support initiatives for sentencing reform, police accountability, and restorative justice programs.

5. Affordable Housing: Combating Displacement

Black neighborhoods in Oklahoma are at risk of gentrification and displacement. The lack of affordable housing options forces many families into unstable living conditions.

Legislative Priority: Advocate for housing policies that promote affordability and protect long-standing residents.

6. Food Insecurity: Nourishing Communities

Food deserts disproportionately affect Black communities, limiting access to fresh, affordable, and nutritious food. This issue contributes to health disparities and impacts overall well-being.

Legislative Priority: Promote urban agriculture and incentivize grocery stores to operate in underserved areas.

7. Environmental Justice: Protecting Health and Safety

Historically, industrial sites and landfills have been placed near Black communities, leading to increased exposure to pollutants and environmental hazards.

Legislative Priority: Implement stricter environmental regulations and prioritize cleanup efforts in impacted areas.

8. Representation in Government: Elevating Black Voices

Black Oklahomans remain underrepresented in political offices and decision-making roles. This lack of representation hinders the development of policies that address community needs.

Legislative Priority: Support leadership programs and initiatives that encourage political engagement.

9. Cultural Preservation: Honoring Black History

Oklahoma’s rich Black history, from the Greenwood District to historic Black towns, is often overlooked or underfunded. Preserving these landmarks is essential for cultural identity and education.

Legislative Priority: Secure funding for cultural preservation projects and promote Black history in educational curricula.

10. Mental Health Resources: Breaking the Stigma

The stigma surrounding mental health, coupled with a lack of culturally competent resources, leaves many Black Oklahomans without the support they need. Addressing this issue requires community-centered approaches.

Legislative Priority: Increase funding for mental health services and provide training for culturally competent care.

Addressing Legislative Gaps: Where the Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus Must Lead

Despite these pressing challenges, the bills authored by members of the Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus (OLBC) have not collectively addressed these issues in a comprehensive manner. Furthermore, there is a noticeable gap in efforts to educate the most vulnerable constituents in their districts about these challenges and the legislative solutions required.

Building Trust Through Community Engagement

To empower the community and garner trust, OLBC members must:

• Host Regular Town Halls: Create open forums where constituents can voice concerns, learn about legislative actions, and provide feedback.
• Launch Educational Campaigns: Develop accessible resources that explain complex policies and how they directly impact Black communities.
• Strengthen Grassroots Efforts: Collaborate with local organizations to address immediate community needs while advocating for systemic change.

Driving Accountability Through Transparency

Accountability is critical to rebuilding trust and achieving measurable outcomes. The OLBC should:

• Publish Legislative Scorecards: Regularly share progress reports that outline their legislative goals, achievements, and ongoing efforts.
• Engage in Bi-Partisan Advocacy: Work across party lines to ensure that key issues like economic disparities and healthcare inequities receive the attention they deserve.

Changing Outcomes Through Legislative Actions

To create lasting change, the OLBC must prioritize:

• Comprehensive Policy Packages: Address intersecting challenges such as education, housing, and health through holistic legislative approaches.
• Advocacy Training: Equip constituents with tools to advocate for their needs and hold elected officials accountable.
• Increased Collaboration: Partner with community leaders, activists, and organizations to develop policies rooted in lived experiences.

Driving Change: The Role of the Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus

The Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus (OLBC) plays a crucial role in addressing these issues through advocacy and legislation. Their priorities should include economic development, education reform, healthcare expansion, and criminal justice reform—key areas that align with the challenges outlined above. However, to truly drive change, a more unified and transparent approach is essential.

Call to Action

Tackling these challenges requires collective action from policymakers, community leaders, and citizens. You can make a difference by:

• Supporting organizations dedicated to social equity.
• Voting for candidates who champion inclusive policies that represent the interests of constituents.
• Participating in community initiatives that address these issues.
• Encouraging the OLBC to adopt a more unified and transparent strategy.

OLBC must work together with each other and empower constituents to create a more equitable Oklahoma where Black communities succeed.

Written by Apollo Woods, Executive Director, Bigger Than Food