Funding Sought for John Hope Franklin Park

Completion of the John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park will help heal long-standing wounds of the most violent and horrific race riots that transpired in Tulsa and American History. This memorial will stand as a symbol of reconciliation and serve as a center for understanding and dialogue about race in America.

“The time is now,” said Mayor Kathy Taylor. “It is imperative that the State Legislature and Oklahoma Historical Society follow through with their commitment to this vital project. Legislators can send a clear signal to our citizens that it’s time to break down the cultural barriers, and foster the dialogue that will lead to understanding and reconciliation.”

Last Tuesday, Mayor Taylor joined members of the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the John Hope Franklin Memorial Committee in Oklahoma City to persuade legislators of the funding needed to complete the first phase of the project. The Mayor and the delegation met with the Governor’s office, as well as with State Treasurer Scott Meacham, House Speaker Chris Benge, and several key members of the Legislature.

In 2001, The State Legislature committed $5 million for the design and construction of the John Hope Franklin Center. $1.3 million has not been appropriated to date by the legislature.

The land has been purchased and much of the artwork has been completed, but no further action can be taken until funds are released to finish construction work on the park, parking lot, sidewalks and fence.