John,

This weekend Oklahoma lost a fierce public servant. Senator Fred Harris, born in Cotton County in 1930, passed away after a lifetime dedicated to public advocacy and service. He was elected to the Oklahoma Senate in 1957 and then he went on to serve in the U.S. Senate in 1964.

During his time in office he served on the Kerner Commission, helping the commission confront the uncomfortable truths of segregation, systemic racism, and entrenched poverty. Senator Harris also played a critical role in returning the sacred Blue Lake lands to the Taos Pueblo in New Mexico, a landmark victory for Indigenous rights and cultural preservation.

Just this summer, Senator Harris returned to the National Convention with the Oklahoma State  Delegation. He served as Chairman for the Democratic National Committee from 1969 to 1970 and ran for President in 1976. Returning to Chicago at another historic convention, he laid out a strong vision for the future consistent with his work on behalf of our nation.

We were honored to share in his wisdom, his passion, and his friendship. We know that committing ourselves to these same fights, to standing unflinchingly for the dignity of every person, of equal and fair treatment under the law, and to standing up for working Oklahomans is the best way to honor that friendship. We will remember Senator Harris and his vision as we continue the work of bringing our neighbors together to build a better Oklahoma.  

You can join us in honoring Senator Harris by investing in the fight for systemic change—addressing the very issues he championed, like expanding economic opportunity, uplifting marginalized communities, and strengthening democracy. Your support will directly empower efforts to ensure Oklahoma reflects the values of fairness, equality, and unity that he held so dear. 

I ask you to join us as we fight to ensure ballot access so every Oklahoman’s voice is here. 

I ask you to join us as we advocate for policies that will tackle inequality and build stronger, more inclusive communities.

I ask you to join us as we support our local and emerging leaders here in our state who will continue in Fred’s footsteps fighting for justice.

Senator Harris stood in rooms where hard truths were spoken and challenged the status quo to build a better Oklahoma and a better America. By donating today, you’re honoring his memory and committing to the work of justice and unity that defined his life.

Together, we can continue Senator Harris’ fight for systemic change and create an Oklahoma that lives up to his vision of fairness, dignity, and opportunity for all.

In Solidarity,

Alicia Andrews
Chairwoman
Oklahoma Democratic Party

We are Democratic strong, powered by grassroots efforts and activists of this Great State. Our mission is to fight for Oklahoma’s most vulnerable communities, protect working families and ensure that we live up to the promises of the Oklahoma dream.