For Immediate Release
May 26, 2017

Media Contact:
Angela Allmond, Communications Director
405-536-2417
Oklahoma Democratic Party

Repulsive Racism and Sexism Alive in the State House of Representatives

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Democratic Party emphatically denounces the actions and behavior of House Republicans, during this morning’s session, to silence a well-respected Representative.

Representative Regina Goodwin, the only African American woman in the House, was confronted with disrespectful behavior by Republicans to disrupt her from speaking on the floor today, demonstrating continuous racism and sexism that has plagued the House during the 2017 session.

The Oklahoma Democratic Party Chair, Anna Langthorn, stated, “Our lawmakers are role models for our citizens. The ill-mannered, sexist and racist behavior of House Republicans demonstrated today is unacceptable. Racist and sexist behavior has no business in our legislation, and House Republicans must issue an apology to Representative Goodwin.”

The State is facing a budget crisis with a near $900 million budget hole and pressure to balance the budget by the end of today and avoid calling a special session. Oddly, as House members gathered for further debate this morning, the usual live feed was down and unavailable for constituents to watch the process on the floor.

###

For more information about the Oklahoma Democratic Party, visit the party website at okdlive.wpengine.com, or call party headquarters at 405-427-3366.