Urging action from the Oklahoma Governor and Senate
We are writing on behalf of the undersigned organizations to urge you to support tenure at Oklahoma’s institutions of higher education rather than eliminate it, as Executive Order 2026-07 and Senate Bill 1782 aim to do. We urge you to rescind the Executive Order, which eliminates tenure at the state’s public regional universities and community colleges, and we strongly oppose SB 1782, which aims to end tenure at all public institutions of higher education in Oklahoma.
As stated in Executive Order 2026-07, the State of Oklahoma has a responsibility to steward Oklahoma tax dollars, ensure accountability in higher education, advance student knowledge, and shape the state's "civic and economic future." Contrary to the Executive Order and SB 1782, however, faculty tenure promotes—rather than undermines—these educational aims. Without tenure, faculty jobs in Oklahoma will be far less desirable than they are in other states, and Oklahoma colleges and universities will be less competitive in the market for outstanding faculty. Moreover, the faculty that remain in Oklahoma will not be able to teach as effectively, and faculties will be less invested in the success of their institutions. Without tenure, the quality of higher education institutions in Oklahoma—and the quality of the education they provide to Oklahoma’s students—will deteriorate significantly.
Letters prepared in collaboration with other associations are published in their original language of composition.
About LASA
The Latin American Studies Association (LASA) is the largest professional association in the world for individuals and institutions engaged in the study of Latin America. With over 13,000 members, over 60% of whom reside outside the United States, LASA is the one association that brings together experts on Latin America from all disciplines and diverse occupational endeavors, across the globe. LASA's mission is to foster intellectual discussion, research, and teaching on Latin America, the Caribbean, and its people throughout the Americas, promote the interests of its diverse membership, and encourage civic engagement through network building and public debate.
If you wish to interview a LASA Executive Council member, you can contact the LASA communications office at (412) 648-7929 or send an email to lasa@lasaweb.org.