In a party-line vote, Republicans in Oklahoma formally censured Rep. Mauree Turner, a nonbinary Democrat, after state troopers accused Turner of blocking them from questioning a transgender rights activist accused of assaulting a police officer during a protest over anti-trans legislation. The censure means that Turner will be removed from all committee assignments unless they issue a formal apology, including to the Highway Patrol, which provides security at the Capitol complex. However, Turner has refused to apologize, stating that they will not apologize for loving the people of Oklahoma.
Turner’s denouncement comes as Republicans throughout the United States push proposals that LGBTQ rights advocates say are trying to erase the legal existence of trans people and to restrict the expression of nonbinary, gender-fluid, or drag performers. In Oklahoma, recent efforts by the GOP-controlled Legislature to prohibit gender-affirming medical care for trans children and pass other anti-trans legislation have led to demonstrations at the Capitol.
One protest last week became heated when a protester was accused of pouring water on a state representative and scuffling with a trooper before being arrested. Officers wanted to question the activist, who was inside Turner’s legislative office. Officers were ultimately able to speak to the person in Turner’s office, who was later arrested on a complaint of assault and battery on a police officer.
Speaker of the House Charles McCall said in a statement that the House stands by law enforcement and will not allow members to use their assigned offices and official positions to impede law enforcement from carrying out investigations or making arrests in the state Capitol. However, Turner, who is Black and represents a diverse constituency that includes Oklahoma City’s Asian business district, said one of their goals is making sure all people are welcome at the Capitol.
House Democratic Leader Rep. Cyndi Munson said the House’s censure vote was “absolutely embarrassing.” Sarah Kate Ellis, president and CEO of national LGBTQ advocacy group GLAAD, also condemned the Oklahoma House, saying a statehouse is where everyone, including lawmakers, should feel safe and heard. “Transgender people are under attack by extremists who are baselessly trying to limit their private, best practice healthcare,” said Ellis. “Every Oklahoman and every American should be outraged that lawmakers are working overtime to target people, including their own colleague.”
In a time where LGBTQ+ rights are being threatened, Turner’s refusal to apologize shows their dedication to standing up for the rights of trans people. The censure by the GOP is indicative of the larger battle between those who are for and against trans rights, and the fight for inclusivity and equality in government.