The Tulsa Regional Chamber held a virtual inauguration Thursday for its 2021 chair.
Tulsa Economic Development Corporation CEO Rose Washington is the chamber’s first Black chair. In a recorded address, Washington said her priorities are rooted in improving diversity, equity and inclusivity, and her first area of focus is helping people.
The unemployment rate for Black Tulsans is more than double that for white Tulsans. Washington said the answer is improving access to job training and educational opportunities, starting before high school graduation. Thanks to my high school teacher, I interned in a local city clerk’s office instead of cutting tall grass in public spaces. I believe that opportunity at the Durant, Mississippi, city hall put me on the path that has led me here today, Washington said.