The Legacy of Helen Troy

Helen Troy, longtime publisher of the Oklahoma Observer, died last week.

Troy, who published the political journal for 36 years with her husband, Frosty, was a true Oklahoma legend, providing a voice for progressive writers and thinkers in the state.

This blog and others like it owe much to Troy, who was a progressive trailblazer in an ultra conservative state. She created and maintained a forum for the most intelligent commentary in Oklahoma. As The Daily Oklahoman became increasingly irrational and extremist on its right-wing editorial page over the last three decades under the late Edward L. Gaylord, Troy and her husband provided an alternative and truthful depiction of Oklahoma politics and culture.

The Observer, now published by Arnold and Beverly Hamilton, is still a blue oasis in a very red state and that is because the Troys worked tirelessly for truth and justice for 36 years. What they gave to Oklahoma and continue to give—Frosty still writes for the publication—is inestimable. They helped the marginalized, the poor. They stood up relentlessly for teachers, who are always under attack by the state’s anti-intellectual, right-wing politicians. They were the conscience of Oklahoma. They were brave.

As the world and Oklahoma became more corporate-influenced and shallow, the Observer spoke out for humanity and reality, and it still does. The journal’s motto is “To comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.” Under Troy’s guidance, the journal did so with style and wit, with a moral center that was inclusive and compassionate.

Long after the current slew of rich, self-important Oklahoma oil barons and business executives are dead and forgotten, Troy’s legacy will live on. It is a legacy, a history and a life that will never be forgotten here. Troy’s work remains immortal.

Laurel: To Helen Troy for making Oklahoma a better place to live, for inspiring us to live meaningful lives.