Communications & Public Affairs
July 20, 2018

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact: State Rep. Emily Virgin
Phone: (405) 557-7323

House Democratic Caucus Chair Issues Statement on Life of Rep. Claudia Griffith

OKLAHOMA CITY – After a memorial service in the House Chamber today, State Rep. Emily Virgin, on behalf of the House Democratic Caucus, released the following statement on the passing of State Rep. Claudia Griffith.

“Today we said goodbye to our friend and colleague, Rep. Claudia Griffith. Even though Claudia’s time in the House was coming to a close, her unexpected absence from our team is deeply felt. She was an enigmatic soul that brought a sense of discernment and justice to our discussions; especially around issues that were most important to her: public health, children, and veterans. Claudia fought tirelessly and dauntlessly to secure access to healthcare for all people because she knew that, to be successful in life, people should be able to feel secure in meeting their most important needs.

“When Claudia joined us in the House, she overcame what many people thought was impossible and she was well on her way to do the same in her Senate race. That is the Claudia we all came to know. She was not afraid to take on a challenge and held her head high regardless of the outcome often coming back to the Capitol early in the morning after long tedious nights fighting for the people of Oklahoma on the House floor. We are stunned by the sudden loss of her presence, her friendship, and her strength of character.

“As she was memorialized today by her friends and family, we were reminded that Claudia would not want us to hang our heads; she would want all of us, across the state, to carry out her mission of compassion and empathy for others. She would want all of us to continue fighting for a better Oklahoma, one that values the lives of all people and gives them hope. We pledge to continue that mission in her memory.

“Our deepest thoughts and prayers are with those that cherished her most, her husband, Jim, her daughter and sons and their spouses, and her new baby granddaughter that she loved with all of her heart.

“The OU College of Public Health has begun the process of establishing an endowed scholarship in memory of Representative Claudia Griffith. Claudia was an alumnus of the College of Public Health, a health care professional and a tireless supporter of the College both personally and legislatively. As a result, the Claudia Griffith Memorial Scholarship (#50538) has been established. Contributions to this scholarship fund may be made by check or online. The link for online givers is https://giving.oufoundation.org/OnlineGivingWeb/Giving/OnlineGiving/PH

“Contributors should choose PUBLIC HEALTH SCHOLARSHIPS from the drop down menu and at the bottom of the form denote that it is being made in Memory of Rep. Claudia Griffith.”

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