Oklahoma made headlines for being the first state in the country to pass a near-total ban on abortion. Its state legislature routinely makes national news for being amongst the most regressive in the nation. Public education, in particular, has been systemically defunded for years, making Oklahoma ground zero for anti-CRT and other classroom censorship efforts sweeping the country.

This largely-rural state has the lowest voter turnout and highest incarceration rate in the United States and political leadership that remains firmly anchored in anti-equality movements.

But Groundwork sees clear seeds of opportunity on the ground if the resources can be secured to grow them. The organizing ecosystem on the ground is climbing high, despite the odds. Grassroots leaders are building powerful coalitions around criminal legal reform, reproductive justice and civic participation. Demographics provide additional opportunity, with a fast-growing Latino population that will turn Oklahoma City into a majority-minority city by 2030. And with 39 federally-recognized native tribes, Oklahoma’s native communities provide additional areas of opportunity, if approached with attention, respect and care.

Make no mistake: The political road ahead in Oklahoma is extremely difficult for those committed to a more just and equitable future for all. But that is precisely why Groundwork is choosing to work here. If we can get the incredible local organizers and leaders on the ground resources to educate, activate and engage voters they will write a new political story for Oklahoma’s future.