In a significant step towards promoting inclusivity and addressing historical injustices, the Edmond City Council approved a measure to remove outdated and discriminatory language from property documents during their meeting on January 13, 2025. This decision marks a pivotal moment for the community, as it aims to eliminate restrictive covenants that have long barred individuals based on race and nationality from owning or living in certain areas.

Casey Moore, the director of management services, presented the item to the council, highlighting the collaborative efforts over the past two years with state legislators and the Oklahoma Realtors Association. The recent change in state law, effective November 1, now empowers cities to remove such language from plat documents, a move that follows previous legislation allowing individual property owners to do the same with their deeds.

The Highland Park edition, which contained discriminatory language dating back to 1909, was identified as the first case in Edmond to undergo this amendment. Moore expressed gratitude to the city staff and state delegates for their roles in this important legislative change, emphasizing the need for such actions to rectify historical wrongs.

The council plans to address 19 additional properties in the coming months, streamlining the process to ensure that the community understands the significance of these changes. Moore announced a ceremonial signing of the first document to memorialize this achievement, reinforcing the commitment to preserving Edmond's history while moving towards a more equitable future.

This decision not only reflects a commitment to social justice but also sets a precedent for other communities in Oklahoma, showcasing the importance of local governance in addressing systemic issues. As Edmond takes these steps, residents can look forward to a more inclusive environment that acknowledges and rectifies past injustices.