The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture is commemorating the 100th anniversary of the “Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921” with a series of events exploring the widespread impact the carnage had on the Tulsa community and the nation.
Among the list of scheduled activities is a June 1 moment of reflection at noon, recalling the massacre’s final day and for which residents of the Greenwood community will be able to share thoughts about their thoughts on the violence that claimed the lives of nearly 300 people, Smithsonian said in a statement.
“With this observance of the Tulsa Massacre Centennial, the museum seeks to memorialize those who died and honor those who helped rebuild the Greenwood community after the massacre,” said Kevin Young, the Andrew W. Mellon director of the Smithsonian’s NMAAHC. “These were people who suffered tremendous losses yet rebuilt their community and their businesses with hope for a better future. Through the lens of Tulsa, we will continue to explore the history and the impact of racial violence in the United States and the power of reckoning, resilience, and reconciliation.”
In addition to the loss of life and homelessness that evolved, the thriving Black business district, known then as “Black Wall Street,” lost scores of businesses ranging from banks, hotels and department stores to movie theaters, skating rinks and restaurants.
None of the white perpetrators of the Tulsa Race Massacre were ever arrested.
The public can participate using the hashtag #Tulsa100.
