In 1979, Orange County Airport was renamed to John Wayne Airport to honor the famous actor from Newport Beach after he died. However, throughout his life, John Wayne openly expressed some very racist and homophobic viewpoints. Society has significantly changed in the 41 years since 1979, as has Orange County. What was once a predominantly white conservative stronghold is now a vibrant and diverse community. According to a Chapman University poll, 79% of residents believe that “OC’s increasing ethnic diversity is a source of great strength for the region.” In Orange County, we welcome and celebrate diversity. 

In a 1971 interview with Playboy, Wayne stated “I believe in white supremacy until the blacks are educated to a point of responsibility.” He also made clear he "[did not] feel guilty about the fact that 5 or 10 generations ago [black] people were slaves." Wayne didn’t stop there, choosing to take aim at Native Americans as well. He stated that he “[doesn’t] feel we did wrong in taking this great country away from them” because “the Indians were selfishly trying to keep it for themselves." American settlers committed multiple atrocities, including genocide, when stealing the Native Americans’ land in the name of Westward Expansion. John Wayne’s willful ignorance and suggested support for past cruelty and bigotry is exactly why holding him in esteem is an affront to many in our community, sends a horrible message about where our support lies and is just outright wrong. We can all agree there is no place for racism and bigotry in 2020. Why, then, do we honor one of its many sources and supporters with our airport?

Continuing to idolize John Wayne, a known racist and homophobe, with statues and buildings in the airport directly conflicts with our county's values. It sends a message to everyone in our diverse community, and especially the people of color, that we choose to ignore racism and hate while commending those who spew it. In a time where society is finally rethinking and restructuring centuries of systemic discrimination, bigotry, and harm, Orange County must listen and repudiate the intolerant values Wayne espoused by removing his likeness and references from Orange County Airport.

Sign and share this petition to show the Orange County Board of Supervisors that OC stands for diversity and acceptance and that we disavow bigotry, hate, intolerance, and all of its past sources in our community. We urge them to do the same.