For over six decades, the ACLU of Oklahoma has been a steadfast guardian of civil liberties, championing the rights of individuals against discrimination and injustice. Since its founding in 1964, our organization has worked tirelessly to uphold the principles of the Constitution, ensuring that all Oklahomans—regardless of race, gender, or background—are afforded the freedoms they deserve. 60 years is a long time. Over that period, Oklahoma has changed into a fundamentally different state. We’re proud to acknowledge our role in helping shape that change for the better. As we reflect on our history, we celebrate not only the battles won, but also the resilience of those who fought for justice alongside us.
Founded in the midst of the Civil Rights Era, the ACLU of Oklahoma hit the ground running. In its early years, our organization took on pivotal cases that altered the state’s legal landscape, standing up for free speech and racial justice wherever we could. As the Civil Rights Movement swept across the country, Oklahoma was far from the sidelines, actively involved in the struggle for equal treatment under the law. ACLUOK stood alongside Black students and activists demanding desegregation and fair treatment in public institutions. Whether through legal action or advocacy, our organization played a key role in ensuring that the promises and freedoms of our country extended to all people, regardless of race.
Whether by fighting for racial justice, challenging the mistreatment of individuals in state institutions, or defending protesters' First Amendment rights, our organization quickly established itself as a formidable force for justice. These bold endeavors laid the groundwork for decades of advocacy. Without the ambitious original efforts of our predecessors, ACLUOK would not be where it is today. It is crucial that we continue to carry their torch forward as we build on the foundation they established for us.
As we look back on our history, we can gain some valuable insight into our present. In a time of great social upheaval, the ACLU of Oklahoma was thrown right in the mix, providing support to those who dared to push for progress. Today, the struggles of our past appear all too familiar. But if our organization’s founding tells us anything, it is this—there is never a “right” time for change. Progress does not wait for perfect circumstances. Change requires stepping into uncertainty, facing pushback, and continuing nonetheless. In our early years, the ACLU of Oklahoma took bold action in the face of impossible adversity. Our predecessors fought for progress not because it was easy, but because they believed that the American promise of equality and justice belonged to all of us.
Today, we find ourselves in a similar moment. It is important that we remember that change rarely arrives when convenient. Progress is most demanded of us when the path forward appears uncertain. It requires daring to challenge the status quo and standing firm in the belief that justice is worth fighting for, no matter the circumstances. Just as our founders did six decades ago, we must continue to run forward the torch of progress. We know that the work we do today will fundamentally alter the next 60 years of our state. No worthwhile change ever comes easy. So long as there is room for progress, the ACLU of Oklahoma will be here, leading the charge for a more just and equitable state.
Saturday, May 17th, the ACLU of Oklahoma is hosting our Liberty Gala to celebrate 60+ years of standing up for justice and equality for all Oklahomans. Join us, and keynote speaker W. Kamau Bell, as we reflect on our past and look toward our future. We hope to see you there.