In a commendable acknowledgment of history, the Oklahoma Senate has moved to officially recognize Russell M. Perry’s contributions and service. The resolution, SR 13, posthumously confirms Perry as the Oklahoma Secretary of Commerce for his tenure in 1999. This correction comes decades after Perry, who was also the first African American to hold the position, made significant strides in the social and economic arenas of Oklahoma.
State Rep. Michelle McCane of Tulsa expressed profound gratitude in a statement for the Senate’s actions. She stated, “I want to thank the Senate for recognizing my Great Uncle Russell Perry, for his service as the acting Oklahoma Secretary of Commerce in the 90s and officially confirming him as the actual Secretary of Commerce for that time period.” McCane also highlighted the importance of leadership that is strong enough to correct past errors. This information was first reported by the Oklahoma House of Representatives.
Russell M. Perry is remembered not only for his political achievements but also for his contributions to media in Oklahoma. He was the force behind the inception of impactful publications such as the Black Chronicle and the establishment of Perry Publishing and Broadcasting Company. His entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to community uplift can now be duly celebrated with this formal acknowledgment by the state’s lawmakers.
Perry's legacy will now be suitably commemorated, following years of informal accolades. As Rep. McCane noted, his contributions will be esteemed for what they were truly – pioneering and vital to the fabric of Oklahoma. “My family and I are grateful his legacy will now be remembered for what it was,” McCane commented, ensuring that Perry’s name will be permanently etched in the annals of Oklahoma’s history books, as per the Oklahoma House of Representatives..
