State Of Black Oklahoma: 'Operation Nehemiah'

A supplement to The Sunday Oklahoman presents details of an initiative in the black community to improve itself under the umbrella of "Operation Nehemiah," an organization "working to renew, rekindle and reconnect the community."

Former State Senator Angela Monson's introduction reports the organization was inspired by Tavis Smiley's book, Covenant With Black America, which outlines a philosophy "upon which progress and unification in the black community could be achieved." She said the themes of the organization are "unity, responsibility for self, and self determination."

The organization's goals are to work to improve health care, education, economics and justice in the black community. It notes, "Blacks are over represented in Oklahoma's justice system. It is important to determine the factors, and identify the actions black Oklahomans can take to turn this situation around." In particular, it cites providing "alternatives to gangs, drugs and other risky and destructive activities." It also cites the need to improve educational achievement, graduation rates, employment rates and health care availability.

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