We, the undersigned, call on the Oklahoma State Legislature to reject the harmful new policy requiring school districts to report students without proof of U.S. citizenship or legal immigration status. This policy undermines our shared values of justice, compassion, and respect for every child, regardless of their background. Education is a fundamental right, and we must ensure all children are welcome, safe, and given the opportunity to succeed in our schools. This policy must be reversed to reflect the values of Oklahoma and the teachings of justice and mercy found in Scripture.

As a pastor, and a member of this community, (after much prayer) I feel compelled to speak out against the recent decision by the Oklahoma State Board of Education to require schools to report the immigration status of students during enrollment. While the intent behind this policy may be framed as one of transparency and accountability, its moral and ethical implications cannot be overlooked or overstated.
First and foremost, schools should be places where every child is safe, valued, and given the opportunity to learn and thrive. This policy threatens to create an environment of fear and exclusion, particularly for immigrant children, who may already face significant challenges. No child should ever feel unwelcome in a place that is meant to nurture them.
As Christians, we are called to love our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:31). The Bible also commands us to honor everyone (1 Peter 2:17), and to show compassion to the stranger, as seen in Leviticus 19:33-34: "When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God." These words remind us that, regardless of our background, we are all created equal, in the image of God, and deserving of respect, love, and care.
The decision to target vulnerable students based on their immigration status goes against these biblical teachings and the values that have long defined our nation. It threatens to divide our communities at a time when unity, understanding, and compassion are more needed than ever. We must ask ourselves: Are we truly living out the principles of justice, mercy, and love when policies like these sow division and fear among children and families?
I urge our state legislators to reject this policy and focus instead on solutions that protect and uplift all students. Every child in Oklahoma deserves access to a quality education, free from fear and exclusion, regardless of their immigration status.
To my fellow faith leaders, educators, and community members: Now is the time to pray to our God for wisdom and Boldness. It is also time for us to stand together and advocate for the dignity and well-being of every child. Let us choose compassion over division, justice over fear, and kindness over exclusion.
May we be a beacon of love, understanding, and hope in a world that often lacks these qualities. Let us remember that we are called to honor all people and to love our neighbors as ourselves.
"𝐉𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐀𝐥𝐥�--𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐀𝐥𝐥--�𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐥𝐥"