most people have no idea that “indians” are not monolithic. tourists from around THE WORLD want to come and “see indians”, then LEAVE. presently, that is not possible. a cultural center that explains the differences between the tribes (even within them), and shows what life and culture is like for indians in a compact, convenient, discrete exhibit will have a significant impact on the state of oklahoma, not just okc (especially since they can also see the “cowboy hall” just down the road). this was first suggested in my hearing in 1988. however, nobody has ever done an adequate sales job of explaining why this project is necessary, or even a good idea. no other state is more closely identified as being the home of “indians” than oklahoma. most people don’t think about it this way, but the existence of native american tribal culture is more widely known around the planet than the NBA, much less the thunder. however, we have strangely enough completely failed at telling the world this part of our story, and instead have dwelled on overcoming the dustbowl through o.u. football and joining the big leagues. we have a story that people actually want to hear.

on the other hand, trying to piggyback this project (which began at the state capitol) onto okc “because they have maps money” and because the legislature hates taxes, debt, and bonds so much that they have had to erect safety scaffolding around the state capitol is a completely different matter. okc didn’t propose a maps election to complete an unfinished state project. i find the attitude that we should let it rot to be the same thinking that is content to let the limestone fall off the state capitol.

have you ever noticed that most people who have little to no debt are the ones who are so poor that no one will extend them credit? on the other hand, how many homes in gaillardia do you suppose were built without any mortgage at all? who do you suppose is better off and has more enjoyment out of life?