Black Lives Matter OKC Hopeful After Meeting With Mayor Holt

After visiting with the mayor for nearly two hours behind closed doors leaders of Black Lives Matter OKC emerged hopeful.

Just 24 hours prior they were calling for the police chief's job--and several other demands.

After days of unrest Black Lives Matter Executive Director Rev. T. Sheri Dickerson was hopeful, calling Tuesday's meeting a step in the right direction.

“We called for a meeting in 24 hours. Basically, when we were done with the protest yesterday, I got a call and he set up a time,” said Dickerson.

Monday BLM called for a list of demands to be met. And while they didn't discuss the resignation of Chief Wade Gourley or public apologies from Gourley and the mayor, Dickerson said progress was made.

“We presented four off the list, were granted three,” said Dickerson.

In addition to being reassured plans were underway to build a grocery store in NE OKC, the mayor also agreed to start immediate conversations about the implementation of an external auditor and review board for police.

He'll also take a look at making sure officers are provided additional training in effective de-escalation tactics.

However, the mayor won't be able to meet all demands.

“We are more aware now of the limitations or actually what falls under his ability to govern,” said Dickerson.

Dickerson said it's clear he and others are hearing their calls for change loud and clear.

“I don't want to have to offer support and comfort and condolence to a parent that's not able to embrace their child,” said Dickerson.

In a tweet Tuesday night, the mayor said he spent several hours discussing police policies with the city manager and police chief. He said he was committed to change.