Black History Month: Tulsa Honors Local Trailblazers

Commemorating the legacies of influential figures who have shaped the community.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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In celebration of Black History Month, the city of Tulsa is highlighting the contributions of several local trailblazers who have left a lasting impact on the community and the state of Oklahoma. These individuals have made significant strides in various fields, from civil rights to education, and their legacies continue to inspire and guide the people of Tulsa.

Why it matters

Recognizing and honoring the achievements of Black community leaders is an important part of celebrating the diversity and richness of Tulsa's history. By shining a light on these influential figures, the city aims to educate residents about the pivotal role African Americans have played in shaping the local and state landscape.

The details

The list of Tulsans being recognized this Black History Month includes civil rights activists, educators, and other prominent figures who have made lasting contributions to the city and the state of Oklahoma. Their accomplishments range from leading the fight for desegregation to founding educational institutions that have provided opportunities for generations of students.

  • February 2026 marks Black History Month in the United States.

The players

Dr. Olivia J. Hooker

A pioneering psychologist and educator who was the first African American woman to serve in the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II.

A.C. Hamlin

A prominent businessman and civic leader who played a key role in the development of Tulsa's Greenwood District, also known as 'Black Wall Street'.

Corinda Pitts Marsh

A civil rights activist and educator who fought for the desegregation of Tulsa's public schools and founded the Tulsa chapter of the NAACP.

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What they’re saying

“These individuals represent the resilience, determination, and vision of the Black community in Tulsa. Their legacies continue to inspire us to work towards a more just and equitable society.”

— Mayor Kathy Taylor, Mayor of Tulsa (spotonoklahoma.com)

“It's important that we take the time to recognize and celebrate the contributions of these trailblazers, whose work has paved the way for the progress we've seen in Tulsa and beyond.”

— Dr. Tiffany Crutcher, Founder, Terence Crutcher Foundation (spotonoklahoma.com)

What’s next

The city of Tulsa is planning a series of events and educational initiatives throughout the month of February to further highlight the legacies of these influential figures and their impact on the community.

The takeaway

By honoring the achievements of local Black leaders, Tulsa is demonstrating its commitment to celebrating the diversity and richness of its history, and inspiring future generations to continue the work of building a more equitable and inclusive society.