Viola Ford Fletcher, the oldest living survivor of the Tulsa Race Massacre, passed away at the age of 111. Her grandson, Ike Howard, confirmed her death on Monday. He noted that she always wore a beautiful smile and had a profound love for life and people.
The Legacy of the Tulsa Race Massacre
Fletcher was a prominent figure among the remaining survivors who sought justice and reparations for the events of the 1921 massacre. She sat down for several interviews in recent years, where she discussed the devastating legacy of the attack. Along with other survivors, she filed a lawsuit against the city of Tulsa and related departments, arguing they were complicit in the events and that the repercussions continue to affect descendants today.
Events Leading Up to the Massacre
The massacre began on May 30, 1921. Dick Rowland, a 19-year-old Black shoe shiner, was involved in a minor incident in downtown Tulsa. After a white elevator operator screamed, rumors spread that Rowland had committed a crime. Following his arrest, a mob of White residents gathered to confront the jail. A conflict erupted, escalating quickly into violence.
The Aftermath
Over the next 16 hours, the mob devastated approximately 35 blocks of the Greenwood District. Thousands of Black residents were arrested, while many others faced violence and robbery. Historic photographs capture the widespread destruction, with entire blocks engulfed in flames and Black victims lying on the streets.
Financial Impact and Denial of Claims
The fallout was made worse by insurance companies denying claims related to the property damage. Estimates suggest the lost properties, including two major hospitals and 1,256 homes, amount to tens of millions today. Fletcher recalled the traumatic memories vividly, stating she “never got over” the horror of that day.
Ongoing Fight for Justice
Fletcher expressed the lasting impact this traumatic experience had on her life. She struggled with fear, stating that she never felt safe in Tulsa, even years later. In June 2024, the Oklahoma Supreme Court dismissed a lawsuit that sought reparations for surviving victims, complicating their pursuit of justice more than a century after the tragic events.
- Date of Death: Monday, 111 years old
- Notable Survivors: Viola Ford Fletcher, Hughes Van Ellis (died October 2023 at 102)
- Significant Event: Tulsa Race Massacre, May 30, 1921
- Areas Affected: 35 blocks in Greenwood District
- Estimated Property Damage: Tens of millions of dollars
Fletcher’s story will continue to resonate, serving as a reminder of the importance of remembering this dark chapter in American history.
