Thousands Celebrate Clara Luper National Sit-in Plaza Dedication

UPDATE: Thousands gathered in downtown Oklahoma City on November 1 for the much-anticipated dedication of the Clara Luper National Sit-in Plaza. This monumental event honors the courageous actions of schoolteacher Clara Luper and 13 students who sparked a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement.

The plaza, located at North Robinson Avenue and West Main Street, marks the historic site of the original sit-in at Katz Drug Store on August 19, 1958. Luper, then a teacher and leader, led her students in a peaceful protest that resulted in the desegregation of Katz stores within just three days.

The new art installation features a striking 4-ton bronze lunch counter depicting Luper, the original sit-inners, and a Katz employee, capturing the essence of their bravery. The dedication ceremony included heartfelt remarks from Luper’s daughter, Marilyn Luper Hildreth, and performances by local choirs, emphasizing the plaza’s significance.

“For so long, this moment in Oklahoma City has been overlooked in the history books, yet it helped change the nation,” said Luper Hildreth. “This sculpture ensures that future generations will remember that ordinary young people, acting together, can create extraordinary change.”

Representatives from the original sit-in, including ten of the 13 students, stood united with community members to celebrate the plaza’s opening. The project, developed by StudioEIS, took four years to complete and is described as one of the most collaborative efforts in the firm’s history.

“The final work reflects the same spirit of unity that powered the sit-in movement,” stated Elliot Schwartz, founder of StudioEIS. The dedication served not only as a tribute to history but as a call to action for all to contribute to societal change.

John Kennedy, project developer, remarked, “This project represents a true community effort to honor the birthplace of the sit-in movement here in Oklahoma City. We are proud to recognize the courage and vision of the original 13 sit-inners and their teacher, Ms. Luper.”

The plaza was made possible entirely through private donations from various organizations and families, including the American Fidelity Foundation and Chickasaw Nation, showcasing a community’s commitment to preserving its history.

As guests explored the plaza, they were invited to reflect on the profound impact of the sit-in movement, a reminder that collective action can lead to significant societal changes. The dedication of the Clara Luper National Sit-in Plaza marks a vital step in ensuring that the legacy of civil rights activism continues to inspire future generations.

Stay tuned for further updates on this historic event and its ongoing impact on the community and beyond.