Oklahoma Leaders Discuss Immigration Impact Amid Cultural Celebration

During Hispanic Cultural Day at the Oklahoma State Capitol, Latino legislators, business leaders, faith leaders, and Governor Kevin Stitt convened to discuss immigration policies and their impact on immigrant communities and the state's economy. The event was moved indoors due to anxiety within these communities amid increased federal immigration enforcement, with participants emphasizing the critical roles immigrants play in local industries. Latino lawmakers, including Sen. Michael Brooks, urged Gov. Stitt to oppose a proposed rule requiring schools to verify students' immigration status, a move Stitt has committed to blocking, acknowledging fears it has caused among families. The proposal, supported by State Superintendent Ryan Walters, has faced legislative resistance, with a Senate resolution rejecting it now moving to the House. Community leaders and allies, including Republicans like Chris Brewster, joined the conversation to advocate for solutions that protect families and promote inclusion. Despite the cultural celebrations, the event underscored ongoing immigration anxieties and the need for policies that balance enforcement with community support.