"We believe that informed and engaged citizens are the foundation of a healthy and enduring democracy."
You are invited to join us to engage and learn and meet new people. When we come together in community we strengthen American democracy at the grassroots.
Our programs are free and open to everyone. Speakers represent a variety of viewpoints and have included acclaimed historians, literary figures, academics, diplomats, community leaders, and public officials of both parties.
tulsa studies
Tulsa was founded by Muscogee (Creek) Indians, but the discovery of oil created the forces that produced our current city. In this section, we explore our city’s roots and the changes that are molding today's Tulsa and its future.
Oklahoma studies
Oklahoma was continental America's last frontier. Its population grew rapidly following the land runs in Oklahoma Territory and our state was born in a tumult of arriving peoples that created multiple new “Oklahoma” cultures. In this section, we explore Oklahoma, and Tulsa's role in our state.
documentary photography
In our Documentary Photography section we explore how people and places around the globe differ from the world we know in Oklahoma. We learn that our differences are only superficial and that we are united by our common humanity and shared human values. (Photos by the Center's Director, Rodger Randle)