Oklahoma House Bill HCR1012

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/18/21

Caption

Concurrent resolution; Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921.

Impact

The resolution emphasizes the need for the State of Oklahoma to consider various remedies for the victims and their descendants, which could include financial reparations, access to scholarships for affected students, and establishing an economic development enterprise zone to stimulate growth in the historic Greenwood area. This legislative effort represents not only a commitment to acknowledging past injustices but also a step towards ensuring that future generations understand the significance of these historical events.

Summary

HCR1012 is a Concurrent Resolution that addresses the historic injustices of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, marking 100 years since this tragic event. The resolution acknowledges the profound impact of the massacre on the black residents of Tulsa, specifically in the Greenwood District, and honors the surviving victims who still seek justice for the atrocities committed. It highlights that the massacre, often mischaracterized as a 'riot,' led to the destruction of the prosperous black community of Greenwood, resulting in significant loss of life, property, and cultural heritage.

Contention

One notable point of contention lies in the discussion surrounding reparations and empirical approaches to addressing the economic disparities resulting from such racial violence. Proponents of the resolution advocate for equitable reparative measures to be enacted, citing historical precedents and ongoing inequalities. Conversely, opponents may argue about the feasibility and implications of financial reparations, stirring debates about responsibility and justice for historical wrongs. Overall, HCR1012 seeks to further the dialogue on racial injustice and the empowerment of communities affected by the massacre.