The mayor of Tulsa, Oklahoma, recently announced the establishment of a commission dedicated to creating a plan for reparations for the Tulsa Race Massacre, a violent event that occurred in 1921 and resulted in the destruction of the prosperous Greenwood neighborhood, also known as Black Wall Street. This tragic incident led to the deaths of hundreds of Black people, injuries to many more, and left thousands homeless, contributing to generations of racial inequity in Tulsa.
The newly formed commission, named the Beyond Apology Commission, will focus on studying how reparations can be made to survivors of the massacre, their descendants, and residents of North Tulsa. This initiative comes after years of calls for reparations in the city, which have so far resulted in apologies, a scholarship program, and other non-financial actions, but not direct financial compensation.
The commission’s goal is to develop a plan for reparations, including the possibility of financial compensation, in line with recommendations from previous reports that highlighted the need for tangible action. Mayor G.T. Bynum emphasized that the commission is not meant to be a mere “study group” and aims to deliver a housing equity program plan by the end of November.
While the issue of reparations has sparked debates and divisions within the city, the establishment of this commission marks a significant step towards addressing the historical injustices stemming from the Tulsa Race Massacre. The mayor mentioned that funds for the housing equity program have already been approved by voters, indicating a concrete path forward in the reparations process.
The commission’s formation reflects a growing recognition of the importance of acknowledging and rectifying past wrongs, particularly in the context of racial violence and systemic inequalities. By actively working towards reparations for the survivors and descendants of the Tulsa Race Massacre, Tulsa is taking a crucial step towards healing and reconciliation within the community.