WASHINGTON D.C. - U.S. Congressman Dan Boren released the following statement on the U.S. House of Representatives passage of H. Con. Res. 254 which recognizes and celebrates the Centennial of Oklahoma statehood:
“As an Oklahoman, I share a heritage with my fellow citizens that is built on the values of faith, family, hard work and personal responsibility. In Oklahoma people are our greatest asset. There is warmth in our people that you won’t find anywhere else. Throughout many years of hardship, our communities endured because of our “pioneer spirit.” The same strength and spirit that enabled generations before me to survive the Great Depression and two World Wars is still alive today. For all of these reasons and many more, it is an honor to announce the U.S. House of Representatives has recognized the celebration of Oklahoma’s Centennial.”
The language of the resolution is as follows:
CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
Recognizing and celebrating the centennial of Oklahoma statehood.
Whereas on November 16, 1907, Oklahoma officially became the 46th State of the Union;
Whereas prior to becoming a State, Oklahoma was designated as Indian Territory, providing a vibrant history and culture that continues to enrich the lives of its citizens;
Whereas the State of Oklahoma was shaped by those adventurous and daring individuals who embraced the spirit of this great Nation as they opened the frontier of the American West;
Whereas generations of proud people from all backgrounds have called Oklahoma their home and have contributed to its spirited history;
Whereas these hearty and resilient people have defined what has come to be known as the spirit of Oklahoma through their strength, character, and persistent strides toward a bright future;
Whereas the continued strength, initiative, and pursuit of excellence displayed by the citizens of the State of Oklahoma have produced its vibrant economy and secured it as a place of opportunity and progress now and for future generations;
Whereas the solid foundation of family and community embraced by the citizens of Oklahoma has been a constant guide and source of strength to those citizens throughout its history and will remain so long into its future;
Whereas the natural beauty and abundant resources of the State of Oklahoma support a quality of life for its citizens that is unsurpassed; and
Whereas on November 16, 2007, the State of Oklahoma will begin a new century of statehood: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That the Congress recognizes and celebrates the centennial of Oklahoma statehood and wishes its people another hundred years of continued growth, prosperity, and achievement.
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