State Superintendent Faces Backlash For Comments On Tulsa Race Massacre In Education

State Superintendent Ryan Walters is providing context to a statement he made at a meeting about the Tulsa Race Massacre.

He originally stated the race massacre didn't happen because of race, which drew criticism.

Walters says his statements were misrepresented.

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The statement Walters made last night aligns with his previous statements about critical race theory, including those listed on his campaign website.

On Walters' website, he says, "I believe we as a society should strive to fulfill Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream... Unfortunately, a philosophy that teaches the opposite of this principle is infecting our classrooms, and we need to put a stop to it. CRT is a dangerous and racist philosophy,"

He continues to say, "As superintendent, I promise to advocate for CRT’s removal from any curriculum that comes from the State Board of Education."

State Representative Regina Goodwin of Tulsa says critical race theory isn't taught in Oklahoma's school districts and never has been.

She says that's something a State Superintendent should know.

"I don't think he's fit to be in the position he's in. It was an opportunity, for one, if he's not educated on the issue, he should become more so and if he is educated and he does understand the truth, he should be willing to shine a light on that very tragic history so we can be better in Oklahoma," Goodwin said.

Video of Walters from last night's Republican party event shows when someone asked him about the Tulsa Race Massacre.

"But let's not tie it to the skin color of the individual and say skin color determined it," Walters said.

Walters responded to criticism of this statement and says it was misrepresented to create a fake controversy.

In a statement on Friday, he says "...history should be accurately taught. the Tulsa Race Massacre is a terrible mark on our history. The events were racist, evil and it is inexcusable."

He also says, "...kids should never be made to feel bad or told they are inferior based on the color of their skin."

Ryan Walters' full statement:

"The media is twisting two separate answers. They misrepresented my statements about the Tulsa Race Massacre in an attempt to create a fake controversy. Let me be crystal clear that history should be accurately taught: 1. The Tulsa Race Massacre is a terrible mark on our history. The events on that day were racist, evil, and it is inexcusable. Individuals are responsible for their actions and should be held accountable. 2. Kids should never be made to feel bad or told they are inferior based on the color of their skin."

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