Representative Ronald Stewart

D

District 73

Hi, I’m Ronald Stewart and I represent the people of Oklahoma’s 73rd District.

representative

News & Announcements

Sep 30, 2025

Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus Supports Recognition Of Creek Freedmen As Full Citizens of the Muscogee Creek Nation

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus, under the leadership of Chair Representative Ronald Stewart, D-Tulsa, proudly recognizes the historic decision by the Supreme Court of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation on July 23, 2025, which affirmed the full citizenship rights of Creek Freedmen descendants. This ruling stands as a pivotal moment in the ongoing journey toward justice, inclusion, and the recognition of the enduring legacy of Black Native citizens. The Court’s decision not only restores long-denied rights to the descendants of Freedmen listed on the Dawes Rolls but also honors the resilience of their ancestors who were once enslaved and later excluded from full citizenship through systemic legal and cultural marginalization. “The acknowledgment of Creek Freedmen as full citizens is more than a legal victory—it is a long-overdue affirmation of humanity, dignity, and historical truth,” said Rep. Stewart. “Many of these newly recognized citizens are proud Oklahomans and essential members of our communities. Their presence enriches the cultural, civic, and economic fabric of our state.” The Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus commends the Muscogee Creek Nation for upholding the values of equity and tribal justice, and issues the following points of recognition: • The July 23, 2025 Muscogee Creek Nation Supreme Court ruling as a moment of historical justice. • The rightful recognition of Creek Freedmen descendants as full citizens of the Muscogee Creek Nation. • A deep acknowledgment of the enduring strength of Freedmen ancestors, who survived generations of exclusion and erasure. • A warm welcome to these citizens as distinguished residents of Oklahoma. The Caucus further proclaims  July 23, 2025, as a Day of Acknowledgment and Celebration of Creek Freedmen Descendants  and stands committed to uplifting their voices, history, and contributions to our shared future. “We celebrate not just a court ruling, but the lives, legacies, and futures of an entire community that has never stopped asserting its right to belong,” said Rep. Stewart. About the Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus: The Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus is committed to the advancement of equitable legislation, cultural recognition, and community empowerment for African American and historically marginalized populations across the state. -END-

Sep 3, 2025

Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus Announces Rescheduling of A.C. Hamlin Scholarship Gala

OKLAHOMA CITY – Representative Ron Stewart, D-Tulsa, Interim Chair of the Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus (OLBC), today announced that due to circumstances beyond the control of the caucus, the upcoming A.C. Hamlin Scholarship Gala, originally scheduled for Saturday, September 13, 2025, will be rescheduled for  Friday, February 27, 2026. “We understand the anticipation and excitement surrounding the A.C. Hamlin Gala and regret any inconvenience this change may cause,” said Rep. Stewart. “This event is central to our mission of honoring excellence and raising critical scholarship funds, and it is important that it be held at a time and in a manner that allows us to deliver the meaningful celebration our community deserves.” For guests who have already purchased tickets, two options will be available: • Refunds: Full refunds will be provided upon request. • Ticket Transfers: All purchased tickets will be honored for the gala on its rescheduled Date. The OLBC will announce details of the gala in the coming weeks. “The A.C. Hamlin Gala is not just an event; it is a continuation of our legacy of service, leadership, and investment in future generations,” Rep. Stewart added. “We thank the community for its understanding and continued support as we prepare for an even greater celebration ahead.” For more information regarding refunds or to confirm ticket transfers, please contact the Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus at  okblackcaucus@gmail.com . -END-

Jul 15, 2025

Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus to Host 25th Biennial A.C. Hamlin Scholarship Gala

Honoring Black Healthcare Heroes and Celebrating Community Impact Across Oklahoma OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (OLBCF) proudly announces the  25th Biennial A.C. Hamlin Scholarship Gala , to be held on  Saturday, September 13, 2025 , at the  National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum  in Oklahoma City. This year’s theme,  “Elevating Excellence in Healthcare and Community Impact,”  will spotlight Black healthcare professionals, past and present, who have made lasting contributions to the health and well-being of Oklahomans. From rural clinics to urban hospitals, and across generations, the Gala will honor those who have served with purpose and compassion. This signature event is named in honor of  Albert Comstock Hamlin , the first African American elected to the Oklahoma Legislature in 1907. Through scholarship, recognition, and community engagement, the gala continues the A.C. Hamlin Scholarship legacy by investing in future leaders in education, especially students attending  Langston University , Oklahoma’s only Historically Black College and University (HBCU). Champions of criminal justice reform and education equity to address maternal health disparities and supporting economic development in Black communities , the OLBC is committed to legislative excellence and transformative change. The caucus also serves as an advocacy and mentoring body, to encourage civic engagement and leadership development among the next generation of Oklahomans Representative Ajay Pittman, Chair of OLBCF , emphasized the importance of celebrating those who lead by example:  "The A.C. Hamlin Gala is a powerful reminder of the excellence that exists in every corner of our state. I am excited for this opportunity to come together and celebrate this year’s incredible honorees, individuals, and community organizations who do this great work every single day to uplift, heal, educate, and empower our communities,” said Pittman. “This event is about honoring their commitment, highlighting leadership, and promoting our investment in the future. I am most proud that the A.C. Hamlin gala continues to help support our state’s only HBCU, Langston University, and all of the students who carry forward a legacy of leadership, brilliance, and purpose. This Biennial scholarship banquet is more than a celebration; this is a call to keep striving toward a better, more united Oklahoma." Representative Ron Stewart, Vice Chair , shared his excitement for his first gala as a caucus leader: "It is an incredible honor to serve in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, representing the vibrant and resilient community of North Tulsa. As a proud graduate of Langston University and a freshman legislator, I am humbled by the opportunity to advocate for meaningful change. The A.C. Hamlin Gala gives us a chance to celebrate the very people who have shaped our neighborhoods and our future, from healthcare workers to educators and to community leaders. It is our responsibility and our joy to lift them up." In preparation for the event, the OLBCF is inviting the public to  help identify Black healthcare professionals ,  living or deceased, in Oklahoma or those who were born here, and whose work has made an impact on our communities . Whether a beloved family doctor, nurse, community health advocate, or trailblazer who opened doors for others, we want to hear their stories. Please visit the website and complete the form to share your information as soon as possible. The deadline for the entries is Friday, August 15, 2025. 25th Biennial A. C. Hamlin Gala  Event Details:   Date:  Saturday, September 13, 2025  Time:  Dinner and Program at 7:00 PM  Location:  National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St., Oklahoma City, OK 73111 2025 Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. Members: Representative Ajay Pittman  – Chair (District 99, Oklahoma City) Representative Ron Stewart  – Vice Chair/Treasurer (District 73, Tulsa) Senator Regina Goodwin  (District 11, Tulsa) Senator Nikki Nice  (District 48, Oklahoma City) Representative Erick Harris  (District 39, Edmond) Representative Michelle McCane  (District 92, Tulsa) Representative Aletia Timmons  (District 97, Oklahoma City) To learn more, visit   okblackcaucus.com , email  okblackcaucus@gmail.com , or call  405-557-7393 . -END-