Oklahoma City Thunder encourages young artists to celebrate Black history

The Oklahoma City Thunder is accepting entries through Feb. 3 for its annual Black Heritage Creative Contest. 

Presented by Sprite, the contest invites Oklahoma high school students to celebrate Black History Month through creating art based on inspirational experiences, moments or individuals that exemplify Black history. 

Students can submit original Black history-inspired artwork between 8.5 by 11 inches and 12 by 18 inches on white paper or poster board. Four winners will then be selected and recognized during the Thunder game on Feb. 28. Winners will also receive a player-autographed item, an award plaque, four game tickets, Thunder gear and more. 

Thunder Vice President of Community Engagement Christine Berney said the contest allows students to express the influences of Black history today in their own way. 

“We hope this contest inspires creative thinking, reflection and pride among young artists as we continue to highlight the importance of these key figures and moments of Black history,” Berney said. 

The history of Black Americans in Oklahoma is rich. Bessie Coleman, who attended the Oklahoma Colored Agricultural and Normal University – now known as Langston University, the state’s sole Historical Black College or University – later became the first licensed Black woman pilot. 

Oklahoma schoolteacher Clara Luper became one of the nation’s most noteworthy civil rights activists, helping lead events like the 1958 Oklahoma City nonviolent sit-in movement as well as participating in national acts like the 1963 March on Washington and the 1965 Selma to Montgomery marches. Luper’s legacy is now commemorated in the Oklahoma City Public Schools Clara Luper Center for Educational Services and several other centers throughout the Oklahoma City metro. 

Entries for the Black Heritage Creative Contest can be submitted online, dropped off at the Thunder Corporate Office or mailed to: 

OKC Thunder Black Heritage Creative Contest 

Attn: Debbie Williams 

208 Thunder Dr., Oklahoma City, OK 73102 

There is a limit of one artwork entry per person. For further details, or to enter, visit www.okcthunder.com/blackheritage.