Freedom Oklahoma Statement on Oklahoma Christian University

March 17, 2022

OKLAHOMA CITY – In response to ongoing harm targeting 2SLGBTQ+ students, staff, and allies at Oklahoma Christian University,  Freedom Oklahoma issued the following statement: 

The following is attributable to Nicole McAfee, Freedom Oklahoma Executive Director: 

While the story continues to unfold about the ongoing, targeted harm and recently escalating events faced by 2SLGBTQ+ students, faculty, and allies at Oklahoma Christian University, the Freedom Oklahoma team has been in touch with students, staff, and alumni. This is not the first institution to try to hide behind religion as they disrupt the safety and learning environment for 2SLGBTQ+ students and the broader OC community, and we feel it is important to name that it is never acceptable. 2SLGBTQ+ students, staff, alumni, and the community of allies who support them deserve equal access to a safe, productive learning environment at Oklahoma Christian as much as any other school in the state. While we look to those students on campus who are vulnerable to the most harm to let us know how we can safely support them and meet the most urgent needs of this moment, we want all 2SLGBTQ+ students and staff across Oklahoma to know that you are sacred and celebrated. You deserve to learn and teach and be in community, safely, through whatever mediums you are enrolled, as your whole self, with exposure to 2SLGBTQ+ community voices and affirming spaces that allow you to meet the graduation requirements of the institution you attend. 

It is critical we amplify affirming mental health resources, especially for 2SLGBTQ+ folks enrolled in institutions targeting them because of their gender identity, gender expression. We ask that stories covering this topic include information to access 2SLGBTQ+ affirming mental health support, such as Trans Lifeline (877-565-8860), the Trevor Project (call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678), and the LGBT Hotline (888-843-4564).