ARIZONA HISTORY – THE OKEMAH COMMUNITY
Arizona History, the Okemah Community – a reflection on years past, which records the history and rich culture of an African-American community in South East Phoenix. This record is designed to amplify the historical understanding of life in this small community.
Okemah was a fascinating community in which to live and grow. It was indeed a unique community where honest, hard-working men were proud to be their brother’s keeper. Women were respected and demonstrated a sense of pride in the care of their homes and children. Children were loved and nurtured by family, and the community willingly served as their extended family.
The community valued respect for self and others and held in high esteem the desire for academic pursuit. These values, taught at an early age, were the essence of its vision of a better brighter future for its youth.
We retained many values from preserving Okemah’s history. As we read about those who lived there, we share some of their experiences and learn from their mistakes as we look to the future.
Knowledge of a productive history helps us to understand where we have been, value where we are, and recognize the need to continue to grow. A profound debt of gratitude is acknowledged here to all who have aided in the preparation of this brief, yet important chapter of Arizona history.
Dr. Josephine Hill Pete
Ms. Girlie’s Tribute
MS. IRIS “GIRLIE” BRANHAM-REYNOLDS, THE MATRIARCH
My mother, Ms. Girlie, who lived at 3720 E. Anne St., Phoenix, Arizona, came to Phoenix in approximately 1942,……………”
Click Here to read Ms. Girlie’s story.
Okemah Foundation Scholarship Program
The Okemah Historical Foundation will be awarding a scholarship this year in May 2024, to a graduating high school junior or senior of Okemah descent who is aspiring to go to college. Click Here for more information.
Family
Church
Community
The Beginning of The Okemah Community and its Growth Through the Years
Okemah is no longer what it used to be. The community is nestled between 32nd street and 48th street, from Broadway to the South and Salt River to the North. The community was changed from residential to industrial but the hearts, souls, and spirits of Okemah did not.
Click here to read the full story.
Click here to watch the Channel 15 News Interview.
Okemah Community Recognition Day
October 20, 2018
