The Justice Department has announced plans to conduct a review of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, a brutal attack by a white mob on a thriving Black district that is considered one of the worst single acts of violence against Black people in U.S. history. This review, launched under a federal cold-case initiative, aims to shed light on the tragic events that took place in Tulsa.
While there may not be anyone living who could be prosecuted as a result of the inquiry, the announcement of this federal probe has been well-received by descendants of survivors who have long sought justice for their ancestors. Assistant U.S. Attorney General Kristen Clarke stated that a public report detailing the findings of the review will be issued by the end of the year.
Descendants of survivors, including 110-year-old Viola Fletcher and 109-year-old Lessie Benningfield Randle, expressed gratitude for the long-awaited investigation. They believe that it is crucial to understand the true extent of the racial terrorism that occurred in Tulsa, known as the largest crime scene in U.S. history.
The massacre resulted in the deaths of as many as 300 Black individuals, the destruction of over 1,200 homes, businesses, schools, and churches, and the forced internment of thousands of people. Despite efforts to seek financial compensation through legal means, such as a dismissed lawsuit by survivors, advocates for racial justice have continued to push for accountability.
In response to the Supreme Court’s decision, attorney Damario Solomon-Simmons urged the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate the massacre under the Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crime Act. While such investigations pose significant legal challenges, the Act has led to successful prosecutions in other Civil Rights Era cases.
Since the Act was passed in 2008, the DOJ has reviewed numerous cases involving victims of racial violence, resulting in prosecutions and resolutions. Additionally, the Act has brought about successful federal and state prosecutions in cases related to the Ku Klux Klan’s crimes against Black individuals.
As the DOJ continues its review of the Tulsa Race Massacre, it is essential to remember the victims and survivors of this tragic event. By seeking justice and accountability, we honor their memory and work towards a more just society.
