Clara Luper National Sit-in Plaza Unveiled in Oklahoma City

On November 1, 2023, Oklahoma City celebrated a pivotal moment in civil rights history with the dedication of the Clara Luper National Sit-in Plaza. This significant event attracted thousands of attendees to the site of the former Katz Drug Store, where on August 19, 1958, a group of 13 students, including a young Clara Luper, staged a courageous sit-in that catalyzed the desegregation of the establishment within three days.

The plaza features a striking art installation, including a 4-ton bronze lunch counter that presents life-sized representations of the original sit-inners alongside a Katz Drug Store employee. This installation serves to commemorate the collective action of those young activists who played a crucial role in advancing the Civil Rights Movement.

Community and Legacy Honored in Ceremony

At the dedication ceremony, attendees enjoyed musical performances from local choirs, and several speakers took the stage to reflect on the impact of the sit-in. Among them was Marilyn Luper Hildreth, daughter of Clara Luper, who expressed pride in the recognition of her mother’s legacy. “For so long, this moment in Oklahoma City has been overlooked in the history books, yet it helped change the nation,” she stated. Hildreth, who participated in the sit-in at just ten years old, emphasized the importance of honoring this history for future generations.

Other speakers included Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt, committee members Rev. Dr. Lee Cooper Jr. and John Kennedy, and representatives from StudioEIS, the firm responsible for the sculpture. Elliot Schwartz, founder of StudioEIS, noted the collaborative effort that went into the project, describing it as one of the most extensive undertakings in the firm’s history. “The final work reflects the same spirit of unity that powered the sit-in movement,” he remarked.

Guests were encouraged to explore the plaza and its sculptures, reinforcing the community’s commitment to remembering the struggle for civil rights. “This project represents a true community effort to honor the birthplace of the sit-in movement here in Oklahoma City,” said Kennedy.

Funding and Community Support for the Project

The establishment of the Clara Luper National Sit-In Plaza was made possible entirely through private donations. Key contributors included the American Fidelity Foundation, Arnall Family Foundation, and the Chickasaw Nation, among others. Each donor played an essential role in ensuring that this tribute to civil rights activism could be realized.

The dedication ceremony not only celebrated a historical milestone but also served as a reminder of the power of collective action. As reflected in Hildreth’s words, this installation stands as a testament to the idea that “ordinary young people, acting together, can create extraordinary change.”

The Clara Luper National Sit-in Plaza now serves as a vital landmark in Oklahoma City, inviting visitors to reflect on the past and consider the ongoing journey towards equality and justice.