Gary Lee
Executive Editor
What I do here
I am executive editor of the Tulsa Flyer and The Oklahoma Eagle. I lead the talented, hard-driven newsroom producing the Flyer, a daily digital publication that provides local news and information to all Tulsans. I am also the head of a team of editors and reporters at The Oklahoma Eagle, a weekly print and digital publication serving the Black community in Tulsa.
My background
Before joining the Tulsa Flyer and The Oklahoma Eagle, I worked at Time Magazine and The Washington Post. At Time, I was a national reporter covering the environment and other topics. I was also a foreign correspondent reporting about central Europe from a base in Germany.
At the Post, I served as chief of the Moscow bureau, covering the Soviet Union. Later, I reported on national security, social issues, the environment and travel from Washington D.C.
I grew up in north Tulsa, the fourth of 11 children. My background is African American and Creek Freedmen. Growing up, I devoured books and loved being best friends with one or another of my brothers and sisters. I attended boarding schools in Andover, Massachusetts and Uppingham, England. I graduated from Amherst College in western Massachusetts. I majored in the Russian language and Development Studies, which focused on the politics and economics of developing countries, particularly in Africa.
Where can you find me in Tulsa?
I love taking advantage of the diversity of neighborhoods and scenes across Tulsa. Some of my favorites are morning runs along the Arkansas River, eating enchiladas and other Mexican food in family-owned east Tulsa restaurants and listening to funk and other music in north Tulsa clubs.
Journalistic ethics
I am committed to accuracy and fairness. I believe in elevating all voices and particularly those of underserved members of the community. I don’t take part in politics or give political donations. I avoid accepting money or gifts from anyone who might be involved in our coverage. In meetings and appearances, I identify myself as an editor for the Tulsa Flyer and The Oklahoma Eagle.