Perhaps one of the most charming and overlooked states of the Midwest is the Sooner state - Oklahoma. Staying true to the Midwest’s traditional grassroots, Oklahoma boasts a more slow - paced and simple lifestyle than its hustle and bustle counterpart states. Oklahoma, meaning red dirt, named by the American Indians, has something for everyone.

Once you’ve entered Oklahoma you’ll know that you are in football country. The Big 12 Conference’s University of Oklahoma has a rich legacy for winning with numerous divisional champions as well as national titles to their credit. However, the year’s most entertaining sporting event is undoubtedly the Red River Shootout, a high intensity game of football between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the University of Texas Longhorns. This singular game is now one of infamy; national televised by all major sports networks fans come from far and just to see these two blood rivals compete.

When traveling in Oklahoma you’ll definitely need a car. The people to land ratio is so vast everything is spread out in this flat state. Yet, don’t ever be afraid to ask for directions because you’ll be met with an exquisite slightly Southern drawl and a bright helpful smile, in the state also known as the Heartland of America, due to its friendly populace. If you are ever in the capitol, Oklahoma City, be sure to visit Bricktown, the newly renovated downtown area. While you are there be sure to have yourself a nice, big, fat, and juicy steak, after all it’s a state delicacy.

Despite Oklahoma’s national positioning at the bottom of the Midwest, there is relatively little to no problems with race relations. Many cultures call Oklahoma home. In Oklahoma City alone there is a Little Asia, Little Germany, Little Jerusalem, and countless Native American tribes present throughout the state. Interestingly enough Oklahoma was once an all black territory. Today, Boley, Oklahoma, is the only all black town in existence in the state. Due to the successful assimilation of the cultures there are rarely incidents of racial prejudice. Conversely, classism is one of the more prominent forms discrimination. Economic status greatly effects education levels, living conditions, and job opportunities. This directly connects to one’s received acceptance into society and future contribution given to that aforementioned society.

So, whenever you’re itching to see the scissor-tail fly catcher, the Oklahoma state bird, don’t hesitate to come to the state that has its very own self-titled Broadway musical. Oklahoma is a place unlike any other. Just remember, we’re that funny looking state right above Texas.

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