Thousands Gather for Urgent Dedication of Clara Luper Sit-In Plaza

BREAKING: Thousands of Oklahomans gathered today, November 1, in downtown Oklahoma City for the urgent dedication of the Clara Luper National Sit-In Plaza. This historic event honors the legacy of schoolteacher Clara Luper, who played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement during her courageous sit-in at Katz Drug Store on August 19, 1958.

The newly unveiled art installation, located at North Robinson Avenue and West Main Street, features a remarkable 4-ton bronze lunch counter. It showcases life-sized depictions of Luper and the original 13 student “sit-inners,” commemorating their bravery in the fight for desegregation. The plaza stands on the very site of their historic protest, which led to the desegregation of Katz stores within just three days.

At the dedication ceremony, attendees enjoyed musical performances by local choirs and heard moving speeches from key figures, including Luper’s daughter, Marilyn Luper Hildreth, and Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt. “This moment in Oklahoma City has been overlooked in the history books, yet it helped change the nation,” Luper Hildreth stated. “Seeing it honored in bronze would have meant the world to my mother.”

“This project represents a true community effort to honor the birthplace of the sit-in movement here in Oklahoma City,” said project developer John Kennedy.

StudioEIS, the renowned sculpture and design firm based in Brooklyn, spent four years meticulously crafting this installation. “The final work reflects the same spirit of unity that powered the sit-in movement,” said founder Elliot Schwartz.

The project was entirely funded through private donations, with contributions from notable organizations including the American Fidelity Foundation, Chickasaw Nation, and the Kirkpatrick Foundation. This collaborative effort emphasizes the ongoing importance of community engagement and remembrance of civil rights history.

As the crowd experienced this powerful new monument, many reflected on the enduring impact of ordinary individuals standing together for justice. “May we never forget that we all have an opportunity to make a difference,” Kennedy urged, highlighting the significant role that small actions can play in achieving big change.

This heartfelt dedication not only honors the past but also serves as a beacon for future generations, reminding them of the power of collective action in the pursuit of equality.

Stay tuned for further updates on this significant moment in Oklahoma City’s history and its implications for the ongoing civil rights movement nationwide.