A Case for Reparations

Welcome to this Sanctuary as we pay respect and homage to Black Americans through a reimagining of past lives; a time when the Greenwood community of Tulsa, Oklahoma was practically self-sufficient and where the dollar turned over approximately 36 times due not only to the desire to contribute to the success of their own businesses, but also because of racial segregation laws that prevented shopping outside of Greenwood.

Much of the wealth was acquired during the oil boom of the 1910’s. However, a great deal of it was created and maintained through hard work, thrift and entrepreneurship.

Greenwood Avenue was often referred to as “Black Wall Street” because of its economic relevance. The businesses which thrived within this district included grocery stores, libraries, a theatre and much more!

One of the nations worst acts of terrorism occurred in late May and early June 1921. Man’s inhumanity was on full display as 35 square blocks of Black businesses and homes were torched and bombed to the ground. Black citizens were gunned down in the street by mobs of angry Whites.  A 2001 state commission examination of events estimated that between 100 and 300 were killed in the rioting.

We pay respect and acknowledge the descendants of Black Wall Street. We continue to build, as a community, by referencing their foresight and applying it to our very own lives with a desire to become better Americans.