Understanding Black History
Black History Month is a time dedicated to examining the past and honoring the many contributions of African Americans throughout U.S. history. This February, Oklahomans can do just that by engaging with the state’s cultural institutions. Many of these organizations have big plans to broaden their audiences and tell a fuller story of Oklahoma’s history in years to come.
The Oklahoma Historical Society
The Oklahoma Historical Society (OHS) invites Oklahomans to take advantage of its programming and resources year-round.
“We’ve been told that we’re a very well-kept secret,” says Saidy Orellana, multicultural officer at the OHS. “We don’t want to be a secret. We want people to know about us, and especially about themselves. History enlightens people to understand who we are.”
Since the 1980s, the OHS has been compiling resources that give historical context into the Black experience in Oklahoma; these are accessible through its webpage, Black History is Oklahoma History. Topics covered range from the arrival of the freedmen in Indian Territory to the sit-ins in Oklahoma City.