Tulsa Race Massacre

Oklahoma Supreme Court Rejects Reparations Lawsuit for 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre Survivors

The Oklahoma Supreme Court on Wednesday sided with a lower court judge, dismissing a lawsuit filed by the remaining survivors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. The lawsuit sought reparations from the city of Tulsa and other entities allegedly involved in the massacre. The court’s decision was not unanimous, with a vote of eight to one.

Background of the Lawsuit:

The lawsuit represented the last hope for financial compensation for the dwindling number of survivors of the horrific event. The 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, also known as the Black Wall Street Massacre, resulted in the deaths of hundreds of Black residents and the destruction of a thriving Black community in Tulsa’s Greenwood neighborhood.

Court’s Reasoning:

While acknowledging the legitimacy of the grievances and the findings of the 1921 Tulsa Race Riot Commission which documented the devastation faced by Greenwood, the court ultimately ruled that the lawsuit did not meet the legal requirements for seeking reparations under the state’s public nuisance statute.

Moving Forward:

This decision is a setback for advocates of reparations for racial injustice. However, the fight for recognition and accountability for the Tulsa Race Massacre is likely to continue.