Tulsa Marks 105 Years Since the Race Massacre that Destroyed Black Wall Street

June 2, 2026

Tulsa, Oklahoma is commemorating the 105th anniversary of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, when white mobs attacked the prosperous Greenwood District, destroying Black-owned homes and businesses and killing an estimated 300 people. The city continues efforts to identify all victims of the violence that caused approximately $1. 5 million in property damage at the time, equivalent to over $20 million today.

Who is affected

More than 300 Black residents killed in the 1921 massacre
Approximately 12,000 Black residents living in Greenwood at the time who lost homes and businesses
Current Tulsa community members participating in memorial events
Dr. Raymond Doswell, Greenwood Rising executive director
Mayor Monroe Nichols
Greenwood Rising museum staff and supporters

What action is being taken

The city of Tulsa is working to identify and name every victim of the massacre
A candlelight vigil is taking place at Greenwood Rising
A Resilience Leadership Luncheon is being held focusing on educational mission and community programming
Mayor Monroe Nichols is visiting Oaklawn Cemetery to pay respects
Race Massacre Observance Day is being observed

Why it matters

This commemoration preserves the memory of one of the worst acts of racial violence in American history and honors the victims who lost their lives while building prosperous lives in Black Wall Street. The ongoing work to identify victims ensures their stories are not forgotten, while the educational programming at Greenwood Rising helps current and future generations understand this historical tragedy and its lasting impact on the Black community.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint