Beacon of hope, resilience illuminates OKC 6th Street Gateway
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — A symbol of hope emerging from darkness is now on display for everyone to see heading into downtown Oklahoma City.
As the 30th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing approaches, city leaders want to spread the light to everyone going downtown.
The "Be The Light" display is now set up along Northwest 6th Street, welcoming those driving into downtown OKC.
The display is a powerful symbol signifying the light that has emerged out of a day of darkness.
The city, along with its partners on the project, now believes that this sign not only reflects on the past, but also provides a gateway toward a brighter future.
"It's about creating a powerful experience, one that honors the past while inspiring the future," said Kari Watkins, President and CEO of the OKC National Memorial & Museum.
As you head into downtown at night, it will be a little brighter now that a collaborative effort between the City of Oklahoma City, the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, and the Downtown OKC Partnership has been completed.
"For many, this is their first impression of downtown, their first connection to the city story," said Watkins. "This gateway needs to reflect the weight of their journey."
The display is only three words, but that doesn't take away from how powerful a symbol it is.
"The resurfacing of 6th Street, the enhanced signage new light art installation will ensure that visitors feel the significance of this place long before they ever arrive at the memorial," said Watkins.
"Art and placemaking have the power to shape emotions to turn a street into a story," said Dr. Susan Chambers, Chair of the OKC National Memorial & Museum. The words, 'Be The Light,' will serve as a reminder of how this city has risen from a tragedy, carrying its message of resilience to the entire world."
Dr. Chambers says this isn't just a gateway for people to remember and understand what happened on such a dark day, but to also "Be The Light" for the present and future.
"It's a call to action for the present," said Dr. Chambers. "It's about how we show up for each other in our city, in our community, in our world. Wherever you are, whatever you are doing, you have the power to be the light."
They hope that everyone who sees this will make a positive impact on the people they interact with.