At a time of extreme political division across the country, the city of Norman needs a leader who unapologetically stands up for all communities. On Tuesday, Feb. 11, there’s no better choice than Stephen Tyler Holman.
The Black Wall Street Times isn’t endorsing Holman simply because he’s the longest serving city councilor in the city’s history, or because he’s regularly named the most popular politician, but it helps.
We’re not endorsing Holman simply because he knows what it’s like to grow up in a low-income, single parent household using public transportation to move around the city, but it helps.
And we’re certainly not endorsing Holman, a registered Independent, simply because over the course of nearly 12 years, he’s never compromised his values to catch a flight on the political winds, but it definitely helps.
A proven track record
The Feb. 2025 election for Mayor of Norman isn’t about one candidate versus the other. It’s about whether the city will embrace or abandon the values of inclusivity and progress that make it a leader across the state.
Holman’s track record speaks for itself. He’s consistently voted to protect Norman’s natural resources, enhance public services and improve quality of life projects.
He’s determined to improve public access for people of all backgrounds and wants to provide support for all neighbors, including those experiencing homelessness.
A listener, fighter, problem solver
Unlike many politicians, Holman isn’t afraid to stand up for what he believes in and listen to marginalized communities.
He stood up for Black and Indigenous communities by making space for their voices during the Black Lives Matter movement. Holman stood up for small businesses when local authorities tried to shut down the Friendly Market.
And most recently, he stood up to the state’s Oklahoma Turnpike Authority when it tried to bulldoze through the concerns of residents fearful of losing their homes.
As a city councilor, Holman has supported citizens’ right to protest the police, while advocating for a fully functioning police department that maintains trust and transparency.
When opponents try to spread lies about Holman’s character or voting record, he doesn’t get even. He gets coffee. Holman’s vision of building a connected and inclusive community is what Norman needs to meet this moment in our nation’s history.
With support from all areas of the city, Holman doesn’t need our endorsement, but we gladly give it to him.
Vote Stephen Tyler Holman for Mayor of Norman Tuesday, Feb. 11.