Don't Say "Sustainability"

Is Freedom of Speech Debatable
in the Oklahoma Legislature?

Rep. Gus Blackwell (R-Laverne) doesn't want you to say, "Sustainability."

Mr. Blackwell -- a state representative from western Oklahoma -- opposes the recognition in our state of any term like "sustainability" or "carbon footprint." These words can be manipulated for political purposes, he says.

So, he wants the State House of Representatives to go on record opposing any group, individual or program that uses these words.

He has introduced House Resolution 1033:

A Resolution opposing recognition in state of certain
term; opposing any group that integrates certain
term; opposing recognition in state of certain
alliances; opposing certain national or international
pacts; and directing distribution....

The Resolution, which Rep. Blackwell introduced last month, goes on to propose:

"THAT the Oklahoma House of Representatives opposes the recognition in our state of any term like 'sustainability', which has no solid universal definition and can be manipulated to enforce overreaching regulations....

"THAT the Oklahoma House of Representatives opposes any group, individual or program that integrates the term 'sustainability', or any related term like 'carbon footprint' or 'trip bottom line' that hinder production agriculture...."

Representative Blackwell's proposed Resolution is a reaction, he says, to "United Nations Agenda 21" -- you know, the comprehensive plan of global control that is being covertly pushed into local communities through local initiatives to promote "smart growth" and "resilient cities."

(For a serious description, see our blog post, "What is Agenda 21?")

Obviously, the United Nations Association does not support House Resolution 1033. We generally oppose governmental restrictions on free speech.

If you enjoy your right to say "Sustainable" (or "green," etc.), you might want to send an email message to Speaker Jeff Hickman. As the elected leader of the Oklahoma House of Representatives, Rep. Hickman has some influence over the items of business that are brought up for a vote in the Legislature. You might want to suggest that action on HR 1033 should be deferred indefinitely.

Speaker Hickman's email address is jwhickman@okhouse.gov

Thanks!

"No man's life, liberty or property are safe while the Legislature is in session."
--Gideon John Tucker