State of Oklahoma
Executive Department
Proclamation
Whereas, Oklahoma is home to over five hundred museums and cultural organizations which are located in every region of the state and serve as educational institutions, preservation organizations, agencies of scientific discovery, and cultural centers; and
Whereas, Oklahoma museums represent a multitude of disciplines and learning experiences, including art museums, historical societies, historic sites, zoos, aquariums, science centers, botanical gardens, historic houses, natural history museums, children’s museums, heritage centers, living history museums, tribal cultural centers and museums; and
Whereas, Oklahoma museums encourage curiosity and provide a source of enjoyment and education for every generation and every community. Oklahoma museums nourish minds and spirits by fostering contemplation, exploration, critical thinking, and dialogue to advance knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of history, science, the arts and the natural world; and
Whereas, Oklahoma museums are vital to the preservation, interpretation, and presentation of Oklahoma’s heritage; and
Whereas, Oklahoma museums contribute significantly to the livability and economic viability of the state and its communities generating more than $482,000,000 in total direct economic activity, providing for more than 16,000 full time equivalent jobs supported, obtaining more than 425,000 volunteer hours, and attracting over 6,000,000 visitors; and
Whereas, the Oklahoma Museums Association has served to bring important recognition of this commemorative week and invites all museums, Oklahoma residents, and local governments to use this milestone to recognize and celebrate the contributions of Oklahoma;
Now, therefore, I, J. Kevin Stitt, Governor of the State of Oklahoma, do hereby proclaim March 15-21, 2020 as Oklahoma Museums Week
In the State of Oklahoma