Justice Department reviews 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre events

In Oklahoma, the U.S. Department of Justice announced a review of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, a violent attack by a white mob on a prosperous Black community, known as Black Wall Street. This event is recognized as one of the most severe acts of racial violence in U.S. history, resulting in the deaths of up to 300 Black individuals and the destruction of over 1,200 properties. The review is part of a federal cold-case initiative aimed at addressing historical civil rights crimes. Assistant U.S. Attorney General Kristen Clarke stated that while there are no expectations of prosecuting living perpetrators, the investigation aims to provide a comprehensive public report by the end of the year. This announcement has been welcomed by descendants of the massacre's survivors, who have long sought justice and compensation for the trauma endured by their families. The Oklahoma Supreme Court recently dismissed a lawsuit from survivors seeking reparations, which has intensified calls for federal intervention. The Justice Department's inquiry is significant as it marks the first federal investigation into the massacre, highlighting the ongoing impact of racial terrorism and the need for acknowledgment and accountability. The review will analyze the events in light of both historical and modern civil rights laws, aiming to shed light on the systemic injustices faced by the Black community in Tulsa and beyond.