Day at the Legislature

Logo of the Oklahoma Conference of Churches

Feb. 13 event begins at First Christian Church

The annual Day at the Legislature, set for Feb. 10, will focus on four issues: criminal justice, mental health, substance abuse, and domestic violence.

In a change from previous years, the program will begin with morning sessions and lunch at First Christian Church, 36th and Walker, Oklahoma City. Afternoon meetings with legislators will take place at the state Capitol.

Registration in advance is requested. Theme for the day is "Building and Re-building Our Communities."

The program is presented by the Oklahoma Conference of Churches (OCC), with offices at 301 N.W. 36th St., Oklahoma City. The United Methodist Church is one of 16 Christian communities that form this organization of advocacy and ministry. UM laywoman Joanne Kurklin is director.

On Feb. 13, sign-in begins at 8:30 a.m. at the church. At 9, Rockford Johnson, president of the OCC Board of Directors, will open the program. Speakers include United Methodist leaders in social justice. Oklahomans are encouraged to participate, to learn more about the legislative process, discuss issues, and meet legislators.

Feb. 3 is deadline for a registration discount.

Keynote speaker is Tom Boyd, who has taught religion and ethics for 28 years at the University of Oklahoma. Others include:

• Howard Hendrick, director of the Department of Human Services;

• Robin Jones, director of the Oklahoma Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives;

• Terri White, director of the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse;

• Justin Jones, director of the Department of Corrections;

• Stan Basler, director of UM Criminal Justice and Mercy Ministries; and

• Janet Peery, executive director of the YWCA.

Participants are encouraged to invite their legislators, in advance, to join them for the catered lunch. Later at the Capitol, six legislators will be available from 1:20-2:15 p.m. to discuss issues one-on-one with participants. You may also set up an appointment, in advance, with a specific legislator.

An advocacy workshop will precede the special day. It will offer ways for citizens to communicate better with government leaders. That evening event begins at 7 on Feb. 9 (Tuesday), at Courtesy Inn, 6600 N.W. Expressway.

For more information, contact Kurklin, 405-525-2928, joanne.kurklin@okchurches.org.