Until recently the vast majority of white Americans were totally unfamiliar with the Tulsa Race Massacre that took place 100 years ago this week. The thriving Black neighborhood of Greenwood was destroyed with up to 300 Black people killed and around 10,000 people displaced. It probably would have stayed hidden to most of us if not for the past year in which the video of George Floyd’s murder and other high profile examples of racial injustice forced our nation to face the reality of ongoing systemic racism that has taken a variety of forms following the horrors of slavery. As a Christian, I believe that forgiveness and healing follow confession and repentance. I also believe that this is true not just for individuals but for local communities and the nation. Taking the time and intention to learn about our nation’s history of racial injustice is a necessary foundation for taking steps toward greater levels of justice and reconciliation.
Among the many media stories about the 100th anniversary of the Tulsa Race Massacre, one that was especially meaningful to me was the testimony of 107 year old Ms, Viola Fletcher, a massacre survivor who testified before a committee of Congress. The video posted below features part of her testimony. In addition to remembering the traumatic details of her experience as a seven year old child, she also shared how the massacre impacted the rest of her life. Her education ended in the fourth grade which severely limited her career options and earnings over a lifetime. This is a vivid example of both an awful racist act as well as the systemic consequences in one person’s life. Over the course of our nation’s history, this example could be multiplied millions of times. Ms. Fletcher called on the members of Congress not only to remember the Tulsa Race Massacre but also to act to repair the consequences of systemic racism. Remember and Repair are both essential for justice and reconciliation. That is why it is essential for our nation’s leaders to discuss and implement reparations. Although many people become defensive when the subject arises, reparations are simply specific actions taken to repair the real harm of racism. Discerning the forms those actions take will require deep listening and creativity. Along the way, we need to remember that this is about the lives of real people. Thank you Ms. Fletcher for your testimony calling us to both remember and repair.