Senate Democrats comment on bills that fail to protect all faiths in Oklahoma

OKLAHOMA CITY – Members of the Senate Democratic Caucus issued the following statements after the Senate approved two measures limiting free speech and providing inadequate protections for religious minorities.

“Our Constitution is clear. We cannot elevate one religion over others. If we are truly interested in preventing discrimination, we must apply the same standard to each faith and ethnicity. Freedom of religion and speech are guaranteed to all, and we remain committed to putting people over politics.” – Senate Democratic Leader Julia Kirt, D-Oklahoma City. 

“I’m grateful to represent such a diverse faith community in Senate District 40, and I’m against violence and discrimination in all its forms. However, these measures prioritize one faith over others, and that undermines our fundamental rights of freedom of religion.” – Sen. Carri Hicks, D-Oklahoma City.

“We stand against discrimination against all people. We uphold our Constitutional rights of freedom of religion and speech. The Civil Rights Act of 1964, specifically Title VI and Title VII, and the 14^th Amendment are laws enacted to protect people from discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, national origin, and provide equal protection under the law. Anti-African American, antisemitic, anti-Palestinian, and all other hateful, racist speech or actions should not be tolerated or promoted. Particular focus on antisemitism while some in the Legislature seek to destroy diversity, equity and inclusion is inconsistent, reckless, and irreconcilable. We stand on the side of progress and peace.” – Sen. Regina Goodwin, D-Tulsa.

“The Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects from discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, or national origin, and provides equal protection under the law. Antisemitism is wrong. Prioritizing antisemitism while working to dismantle DEI for students and other Oklahomans is contradictory and does not advance our state.” – Sen. Nikki Nice, D-Oklahoma City.

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For more information, contact: 
Sen. Julia Kirt at 405-521-5636 or Julia.Kirt@oksenate.gov   
Sen. Carri Hicks at 405-521-5543 or Carri.Hicks@oksenate.gov 
Sen. Regina Goodwin at 405-521-5598 or Regina.Goodwin@oksenate.gov
Sen. Nikki Nice at 405-521-5531 or Nikki.Nice@oksenate.gov