Vandals Damage Clara Luper Monument in Downtown OKC
- mike33692
- 1 hour ago
- 2 min read
Damage Found Just Weeks After Dedication
City officials say the new monument honoring Clara Luper and the children who joined her in the country’s first civil rights sit-in has already suffered damage from vandals. The monument, located in downtown Oklahoma City, was formally dedicated earlier this month, drawing praise from civil rights advocates, educators, and community leaders.
In recent days, staff discovered scratches, gouges, and chips on several of the bronze statues, including the figures representing Luper and the young students who challenged segregation in 1958 at the Katz Drug Store lunch counter.
Extent of Damage Clara Luper monument Under Review
The city has not yet determined how extensive the damage is or what type of repair work will be needed. Restoration experts will examine the monument and recommend steps for cleaning, refinishing, or resurfacing the bronze to prevent long-term harm.
Officials say vandalism of public art pieces is not uncommon, but damaging a civil-rights monument has left many in the community frustrated and disappointed.
Historic Significance at Stake
The monument commemorates one of Oklahoma’s most important civil rights moments. Under Luper’s leadership, a group of Black students staged the first sit-in in U.S. history to challenge segregation at a lunch counter — a direct precursor to the national civil rights movement that followed.
Community leaders say they hope the damage will be repaired quickly so that the memorial can continue to serve as a space for education, reflection, and public awareness.
Investigation Ongoing
No arrests or suspects have been announced. The city is reviewing surveillance footage in the area and asking anyone with information to contact Oklahoma City Police.