A Red-State Mayor Reflects on the Importance of Embracing Diversity

One of the fundamental strengths of the United States lies in our shared commitment to ensuring that every citizen has an equal chance to thrive. While this ideal remains a work in progress, the Constitution provides the foundation for this pursuit. Over the past 249 years, landmark moments—from the Civil War and women's suffrage to the civil rights movement and marriage equality rulings—have progressively advanced this cause.

However, progress is not without its obstacles. Serving as mayor of a politically diverse city in a predominantly conservative state, I have witnessed both overt acts of intolerance, such as Ku Klux Klan activity, and powerful grassroots efforts like successful sit-in protests advocating for change.

In our community, voices opposing equal opportunity often frame it as reverse discrimination or reject celebrations like Pride that honor residents’ distinct identities. Such rhetoric, sometimes disguised as patriotism, essentially repackages prejudice, sexism, and racism. Viewing equal rights as a threat rather than a goal only hinders societal advancement.

Before I assumed office in 2018, the mayor’s conference room at City Hall displayed portraits of all 34 previous mayors—33 men and all white. This visual representation underscored the reality that true equal opportunity has yet to be realized. Historically, political influence in Oklahoma City has been concentrated in the affluent Northwest quadrant, where I was raised and currently reside.

As a lifelong Republican who values meritocracy, I recognize that this principle must be inclusive. While every individual featured on those walls was a capable and dedicated public servant, there were also qualified women, people of color, and leaders from other neighborhoods who were excluded due to longstanding barriers of discrimination and systemic glass ceilings.