Oklahoma residents mourned the death of former Democratic U.S. Senator Fred Harrisa pioneer in progressive politics in the state who made an unsuccessful presidential bid in 1976. Harris died Saturday at the age of 94.
Democratic Party members across the street Oklahoma remembered Harris for his commitment to economic and social justice in the 1960s – a period of historical turbulence. Harris served as chairman of the Democratic National Committee from 1969 to 1970 and helped unify the party after the tumultuous 1968 national convention, when protesters and police clashed in Chicago.
“Fred Harris has shown us what is possible when we lead with heart and principles. He made sure everyone had a voice and a place at the table,” said Alicia Andrews, chairwoman of the Democratic Party of Oklahoma.
Harris appeared at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago earlier this year as a guest speaker for the Oklahoma delegation, where he reflected on progress and unity.
“Standing next to him in Chicago this summer reminded me of how his legacy continues to inspire,” said Andrews.
Kalyn Free, a member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and the DNC, said there is no one else in public service she admires more than the former senator.
“He was a friend, a mentor, a hero and my True North. Oklahoma and America have lost a powerful advocate and voice,” Free said in a statement. “His work for Indian Country will always be remembered.”
“Senator Harris was truly an Oklahoma treasure and ahead of his time in many ways,” said Jeff Berrong, whose grandfather served in the Senate with Harris. “He never forgot where he came from and he always remained focused on building a society that would provide equal opportunities for all.”
Harris served eight years in the Senate before being elected to the U.S. Senate, where he served another eight years before his 1976 presidential campaign. State party leaders commemorated his work on the National Advisory Commission on Civil Disorder, or the Kerner Commission, to investigate the riots of the 1960s. Harris was the last remaining member of the committee.
Shortly after his presidential campaign, Harris left politics and moved to New Mexico, where he became a professor of political science at the University of New Mexico.
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Lathan is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.