CHICKASHA –The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority has been asked to name the bridge spanning the Washita River on Interstate 44 (H.E. Bailey Turnpike) in honor of Chickasha native and civil rights activist Ada Lois Sipuel Fisher.
The mayor and city council made the formal application in a resolution they endorsed unanimously March 4 at the request of Ward 3 Councilman R.P. Ashanti-Alexander.
In its resolution the council “acknowledges the significant contributions” of Sipuel Fisher “to the advancement of civil rights and education in Oklahoma.”
She was “a pioneering figure in the struggle for desegregation in higher education” in this state, and her “relentless pursuit of justice led to a landmark Supreme Court decision … which laid the foundation for desegregation” in Oklahoma colleges and universities.
Ada Lois Sipuel Fisher was born and reared in Chickasha and graduated from the former Lincoln High School. Subsequently she became the first black student admitted to the University of Oklahoma Law School, thereby “breaking down racial barriers in the field of law,” the resolution declares.
Her “commitment to equality and justice” continued throughout her life “as she became an influential civil rights activist, educator, and leader in her community.”
The City of Chickasha “recognizes the importance of preserving and celebrating the legacy of Ada Lois Sipuel Fisher for future generations,” the resolution states.
Dr. Ashanti-Alexander told Southwest Ledger that he chose the Washita River bridge to commemorate Dr. Sipuel Fisher because it symbolizes her “purpose in life: to bridge the racial gap.”
Chickasha’s legislative delegation has been notified of the city’s request.
Title 69 of the Oklahoma Statutes provides that, “Highways, bridges, and other facilities which are part of the state highway system may be considered for dedication in honor of individuals deserving of commendation for … outstanding service to the nation, this state, or their community.”
Costs for the signage associated with the naming of highways and bridges on the state highway system “shall be paid by the group sponsoring or requesting the sign,” state law mandates.