Tulsa proposes new African-American Affairs Commission

TULSA, Okla. (AP) – Leaders in Tulsa are proposing an ordinance that would create the city’s first African-American Affairs Commission.

Mayor G.T. Bynum and City Councilor Vanessa Hall-Harper announced the proposal Monday for the new commission, which would consist of 23 members. They say the Greater Tulsa Area African-American Affairs Commission would serve in an advisory and advocacy role to city and county leaders.

Racial issues have loomed large in Tulsa in recent years, with two high-profile police shootings involving white law enforcement officers and black men. Both officers – Robert Bates and Betty Jo Shelby – were charged in the shootings.

Other commissions already in place in Tulsa include ones focusing on Hispanic affairs, American Indian affairs, human rights and women’s issues.