Harkins is no stranger to the ACLU. She has served on the board of directors twice and also served as the board president. While serving as board of directors in 1987, she received the distinct honor of becoming the first African-American president of any ACLU affiliate in the country.
“Harkins has dedicated a lifetime to fight for equality, and her passion has inspired many,” said Ryan Kiesel executive director of the ACLU of Oklahoma. “We are excited to honor such a trail-blazer.”
In addition to Harkins’ commitment to the ACLU, she has dedicated her life to civil rights. Witnessing the unfair treatment of women within the Southwestern Bell Telephone Company, she began her fight for the fair treatment of women and workers. She became heavily involved with the Communications Workers of America Union, and she would ultimately become the first African American and first female elected as the Executive Vice President for the CWA Local 6016.
She has worked tirelessly to increase voter participation and to educate the masses about women’s rights, racial justice, and human rights.
In 2005, she co-hosted an hour-long weekend talk radio program covering a wide variety of topics but primarily focusing on political and social issues. She gave a voice to those who are typically underrepresented.
Currently, Harkins is tirelessly working to defeat SQ 759- a state question that will end equal opportunity programs in public employment, public education, and public contracting.
Harkins will be presented this distinguished honor at the ACLU’s Bill of Rights Celebration on Nov. 12th at the Science Museum Oklahoma. To purchase tickets, please contact Allie Shinn, Outreach Director or to purchase tickets online, please click here.