When Cubit has considered — and asked community members — what the reaction would be if he made a mistake or shot someone in the line of duty, he receives affirmation that while he wouldn’t get “a pass,” his work in the community speaks volumes, and that incites him to encourage that level of engagement among other officers. “They know I care about the community, that the last thing I want to do is kill somebody, and they only know that because of my body of work,” said Cubit. “Let’s spread that body of work throughout the agency.” Cubit says the “bad guys” are thriving in the current divisiveness, thriving in the confusion of officers who don’t want to be too heavy- handed and a community who doesn’t want to call the police because they might not respond correctly. “We’ve got to find the balance,” said Cubit. “We have to ask how people want to be policed and what they expect out of us because we work for you.” Finding hope In his 2020 campaign for Oklahoma County sheriff, supporters from all parties and all walks of life often noted about Cubit his willingness to listen and engage in tough conversations. Even though the outcome of the election was not what Cubit or his supporters desired, he still found a great deal of hope in the process and is grateful for the opportunity to have met so many people he otherwise wouldn’t have gotten to know.
Unplug and Play! City a more equitable place for all community members, he encourages local parents to consider what did or didn’t happen to them growing up in regards to race relations, how that formed their opinions on race and racism and how their views are different from those of other races or those who grew up in a different part of the city. As parents, Cubit says, we can together create a brighter future for all kids if we’re committed to having hard conversations now. “I would challenge the white, middle-class Oklahoman to examine the fact that there is no growth in comfort,” said Cubit. “Race relations is supposed to be uncomfortable. But if it’s hard for us, that means it will be easier for our kids. That’s all I want, and all parents can relate.” “The reason they cared so much, when knowing so little about me, is that they have high hope in our community,” said Cubit of his campaign supporters. “Leaders are supposed to represent solutions, not problems, and they saw a solution wrapped up in my campaign. We’re really good at ‘stopping’ things — stop police brutality, stop racism — but somebody has to represent the START of something.” Through his mentorship program, his podcast and in regular conversations in the community, Cubit says discussions about race and racism are becoming more commonplace, and that’s a good thing, which he hopes is the start of something positive. “I’m hopeful about what comes from these conversations,” said Cubit. “A shared history and memory is formed. Now we have the opportunity to blend our stories so our kids have a different shared history.” As Cubit considers the necessary changes needed to make Oklahoma
Neurology clinic offered for kids
The J.D. McCarty Center for children with developmental disabilities offers an outpatient neurology clinic for children. The clinic in Norman is led by Cindy Carter-Kappus, an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, and Dr. Marc Hille, a pediatric neurologist. The clinic is open and accepting referrals. The clinic also offers referrals for therapy services, orthotics and psychology services. For more information, call 405-307-2883 Services include diagnosis, treatment and management of : • Autism and behavior management • Developmental disorders • Cerebral palsy • Traumatic Brain Injury • Seizures and epilepsy • Concussion • Tourette syndrome • Migraines and headaches
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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / SEPT-OCT 2021 21
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