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Tulsa, Oklahoma – HB 1626 advances to the Oklahoma State Senate with 69 votes in favor and 18 votes against. If passed by the Senate and signed by Gov. Kevin Stitt, it would amend the Tulsa Reconciliation Education and Scholarship Program. March 13 marks a pivotal step toward Oklahoma House's higher education for descendants of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.
The Tulsa Race Massacre left a deep scar on Greenwood and marked a dark chapter in American history. This tragedy was formally recognized by the Oklahoma State Legislature in his 1997 year, and subsequent legislation was passed in his 2001 year. Nevertheless, it took him more than 20 years for any tangible progress to materialize, such as his being allocated $1.5 million in proposed university scholarships.
HB1626: Fixes made I support the Tulsa Reconciliation Education Act.
- Income limit changes: This bill adjusts qualifying income limits for applicants and expands scholarship opportunities for more individuals.
- Validating descendants: Applicants must provide verifiable documentation of their parentage, especially if they are descendants of people affected by the Tulsa Race Massacre.
- Contribution to the local community: The selection process includes collaboration with the Tulsa School District and Community Advisory Board to ensure representation and transparency.
Implementation and effective date: If passed, this bill would go into effect on July 1, 2023. The state of emergency emphasizes the urgency of addressing historical injustices and promoting equity in education.
Who is behind the historic law?
Oklahoma State Representative Regina Goodwin, who represents Tulsa's 73rd District, is a descendant of a family that survived the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre and is a driving force behind the bill. Congressman Goodwin, the importance of continuing Greenwood's legacy and addressing the harm caused by the genocide.
The Tulsa Reconciliation Educational Scholarship is supported by $1.5 million and aims to provide additional educational opportunities for descendants of the genocide.
Goodwin highlighted the underutilization of scholarships and efforts to increase awareness and funding. She sees a future where many students will benefit from its provisions. The recipient can receive $2,000. Additionally, two lucky girlfriends will have their tuition fully covered this year. This underscores the scholarship's dedication to righting historical injustices and fostering a brighter future.
The bill's origins date back to former Rep. Don Ross and the late Sen. Maxine Horner, who co-authored a 2001 bill that created scholarships for descendants of genocide survivors.
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Recent progress on the bill
Recent developments regarding HB 1626 have led to additional amendments emerging. Additionally, the provision will allow more organizations to identify eligible descendants and ease income restrictions for eligible households. If passed, this bill would expand eligibility to descendants throughout the state, greatly expanding the scope and impact of the scholarship.
Supporters remain steadfast, recognizing the invaluable contributions of the bill's author, Rep. Regina Goodwin. Groups such as the ACLU-OK and the Terrence Crutcher Foundation are pushing for passage of the bill.
Passage of HB 1626 aims to correct historical injustices and provide descendants of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre with a fair opportunity for education and empowerment. As the bill moves forward, advocates continue to call for justice and opportunity for the victims of the Tulsa Race Massacre.
