Oklahoma City, January 12, 2026
The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is hosting a new lunch series focusing on the rule of law and justice. Kicking off on January 21, 2026, the event, titled ‘Justice in the Shadow of Tragedy,’ features speakers Vicki Behenna and Wes Lane, both key figures in the trials following the Oklahoma City bombing. This series aims to foster community engagement and understanding of civic values, offering residents a platform to reflect on justice and accountability amidst reflections of past tragedies.
Justice and Community Resilience: A New Lunch Series in Oklahoma City
Join Experts for a Vital Discussion on Rule of Law
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is gearing up for its annual Better Conversations lunch series, set to kick off on January 21, 2026, with a timely discussion titled “Justice in the Shadow of Tragedy: Why Rule of Law Matters.” This event promises to bring important insights into the justice system following the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, featuring prominent speakers Vicki Behenna, the current Oklahoma County District Attorney, and Wes Lane, former District Attorney. Their experiences in the trials of Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols serve as crucial touchpoints for discussions surrounding justice and due process.
Such events exemplify how civic organizations in Oklahoma City are fostering community engagement and empowering residents to reflect on the themes of justice and accountability. By connecting local leaders with citizens, these gatherings enable valuable exchanges of ideas away from the constraints of complex bureaucracies, ultimately enhancing community resilience and understanding.
Event Details
- Title: Justice in the Shadow of Tragedy: Why Rule of Law Matters
- Date and Time: January 21, 2026, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- Location: Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, 620 N. Harvey Ave, Oklahoma City, OK
- Speakers: Vicki Behenna and Wes Lane
- Registration: Required, includes complimentary boxed lunch
- Registration Link: [memorialmuseum.com/events](https://memorialmuseum.com/events)
Importance of Rule of Law in Civic Health
The upcoming conversation is designed to underscore the significance of due process and fair trials, especially in the aftermath of tragic events. With a focus on the Oklahoma City bombing that claimed 168 lives, it allows local residents to engage with civic values that form the foundation of a just society. This type of dialogue is essential in nurturing a culture where justice is transparently administered and understood, reinforcing the community’s commitment to these critical principles.
Meet the Speakers
- Vicki Behenna: Currently serving as the Oklahoma County District Attorney, Behenna was part of the federal prosecution team responsible for convicting Timothy McVeigh in 1997, marking a significant moment in the pursuit of justice.
- Wes Lane: As the former District Attorney, Lane played a key role in leading the state trial of Terry Nichols in 2004, which further emphasized the community’s resolve to uphold the rule of law.
How to Register
Those interested in attending the “Justice in the Shadow of Tragedy” conversation must register in advance. The event includes a complimentary boxed lunch, offering a perfect setting for thoughtful discussion. Registrations can be completed through the Memorial Museum’s official website.
Oklahoma City’s Commitment to Community Engagement
As a community deeply impacted by the Oklahoma City bombing, events like this one at the Memorial Museum play an integral role in fostering civic involvement. They provide a platform for residents to engage with issues of justice while honoring the memory of those affected by the tragedy. The Memorial Museum itself is a bastion of reflection and learning, dedicated to educating visitors about the importance of justice and community resilience.
Visitor Information
The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is situated at 620 North Harvey Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73102. The memorial, which honors the victims and survivors of the April 19, 1995 bombing, is not only a place of remembrance but also an educational hub that is open to the public. The Outdoor Symbolic Memorial operates 24 hours a day, inviting locals and visitors alike to reflect on the significance of community and public safety.
Key Features and Resources
- Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum Official Website: [memorialmuseum.com](https://memorialmuseum.com)
- National Park Service Information: [nps.gov/okci](https://www.nps.gov/okci)
Conclusion
The Better Conversations lunch series at the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is not only a chance to reflect on the past but also an opportunity to engage with ongoing conversations about justice, community resilience, and civic involvement. This event aims to strengthen the fabric of Oklahoma City’s community by providing a space for dialogue on essential legal principles. By participating, residents can contribute to a culture of learning, sharing, and growing together.
Mark your calendars for January 21, 2026, and consider registering for this impactful event. Stay involved in local discussions that shape the future of our community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Better Conversations lunch series?
The Better Conversations lunch series is an annual event organized by the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum designed to facilitate discussions on important civic topics.
Who are the speakers at the January 21, 2026 event?
The speakers will be Vicki Behenna, the current Oklahoma County District Attorney, and Wes Lane, former District Attorney, both of whom played critical roles in the trials following the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing.
How can I register for the event?
To register for the event, please visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum’s official website. Registration is required and includes a complimentary boxed lunch.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Title | Justice in the Shadow of Tragedy: Why Rule of Law Matters |
| Date and Time | January 21, 2026, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. |
| Location | Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, 620 N. Harvey Ave, Oklahoma City, OK |
| Speakers | Vicki Behenna and Wes Lane |
| Registration | Required, includes complimentary boxed lunch |
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