Representative Aletia Timmons

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District 97

Hi, I'm Aletia Timmons and I represent the people of Oklahoma's 97th District.

representative

News & Announcements

Nov 24, 2025

Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus Statement on Passing of Mother Viola Fletcher

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus—Rep. Ron Stewart, D-Tulsa, Sen. Nikki Nice, D-Oklahoma City, Sen. Regina Goodwin, D-Tulsa, Rep. Michelle McCane, D-Tulsa, and Rep. Aletia Timmons, D-Oklahoma City—released the following joint statement after the passing of Viola Fletcher at 111.  “The Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus joins the state of Oklahoma, the Greenwood community, and the nation in mourning the passing of Mother Viola Fletcher, one of the last known survivors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre and a living monument to the power of truth, resilience, and unwavering dignity. “Mother Fletcher—affectionately known across Oklahoma as “Mother Fletcher”—was more than a witness to history; she was a guardian of it. For more than a century, her life stood as a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of unspeakable tragedy. She carried the memories of Greenwood’s darkest moments with grace, courage, and purpose, demanding that Oklahoma and America confront the reality of what was lost, and the responsibility of what must be restored. “Her passing leaves an irreplaceable void. Yet the legacy she leaves behind is one that will continue to guide us for generations. Mother Fletcher’s story is a reminder that truth-telling is an act of justice, that perseverance is a form of resistance, and that healing begins when we dare to fully acknowledge our past. “As policymakers, we reflect on Mother Fletcher’s life not only with profound sorrow, but with immense pride. Her strength remains a model for public service rooted in compassion, accountability, and the pursuit of equity. Her voice—soft yet powerful—urged us to build a future where no community is silenced, where every child can imagine prosperity, and where the lessons of Greenwood are forever woven into the conscience of Oklahoma. “Mother Fletcher showed us what it means to endure. She showed us what it means to hope. And she showed us what it means to stand boldly in the truth so that future generations may walk a freer, more just path. “The Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus extends its deepest condolences to the Fletcher family and to all who were uplifted by her life. We honor her memory, and we commit ourselves to carrying forward the light she held for more than a century. “Rest in power, Mother Viola Fletcher. "Your life has shaped generations, and your legacy will continue to guide us all.” -END-

Oct 29, 2025

Members of the Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus Calls for Urgent Special Session to Protect SNAP Recipients Amid Federal Shutdown

OKLAHOMA CITY – Members of the Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus have issued an urgent call for Governor Kevin Stitt to convene a Special Session of the Oklahoma Legislature before November 1, 2025, to address the impending suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. In a formal letter sent to Governor Stitt, House Speaker Hilbert, and President Pro Tempore Paxton, the Caucus expressed grave concern over the devastating impact the lapse in SNAP benefits would have on Oklahoma families and local economies. “More than half a million Oklahoma residents rely on SNAP to meet their most basic nutritional needs,” said Representative Ronald “Ron” Stewart, D-Tulsa, Chair of the Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus. “Nearly 40% of these recipients are working families, and the majority have children. The loss or delay of these benefits would create an immediate humanitarian crisis and cause widespread economic harm to grocery stores, small businesses, and community food providers.” The Caucus members emphasized that ensuring food access is a nonpartisan, moral responsibility and urged both the Governor and legislative leadership to take swift action. “The welfare of Oklahoma’s citizens must remain the top priority of elected leaders at every level of government,” the letter stated. “If Governor Stitt fails to act, we call on legislative leadership to gather the signatures necessary to convene a special session to provide temporary state funding for SNAP recipients until the federal shutdown is resolved.” Members of the Caucus underscored their readiness to work collaboratively with both the Governor’s Office and legislative colleagues to pass emergency measures ensuring no Oklahoman goes hungry during this time of federal uncertainty. “This is not a partisan issue—it is a humanitarian and economic imperative,” Stewart added. “Time is of the essence. The people we serve are depending on us to act.” Members of the Oklahoma Black Caucus participating in the call for a Special Session include: Rep. Ron Stewart – Chair Sen. Nikki Nice – Vice Chair Sen. Regina Goodwin Rep. Michelle McCane Rep. Aletia Timmons -END-

Oct 24, 2025

Timmons conducts study on education reading readiness

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Aletia Timmons, D-Oklahoma City, conducted an interim study in front of the Common Education Committee exploring education reading readiness and how to advance reading skills in Oklahoma. “Reading is fundamental to enriching the lives of Oklahomans,” said Timmons. “That is why it is important to develop stronger education literacy programs so students can start early and have the best outcomes as they move through school and into the workforce.” The study showed that early benchmarks for literacy development start in kindergarten, first, second, and third grade. However, screening data shows that roughly one in three Oklahoma students K-3 start below the benchmark in foundational reading skills. Foundational reading skills can vary throughout different districts, but reading difficulties can be identified early with screening, intervention, and support. The study also found that the consequences for not reading proficiently by the third grade can expand past academic achievement and into behavioral, economic, and societal struggles. Legislative solutions discussed were updates to the Strong Readers Act, first introduced in 1997. It also highlighted the need for sustained and foundational funding for screening and early intervention services. The study featured presenters from the Oklahoma State Department of Education, as well as former Superintendent of WK Jackson Leadership Academy Dr. Gloria Anderson to explain the vital need for support for early-level reading programs and what happens when support for these programs is lacking. “When we ensure that every Oklahoma child who enters fourth grade is ready to learn from what they read, we ensure a better future for them and for Oklahoma as a whole,” Timmons said. -END-