Tulsa’s Mayor Proposes $105M Private Trust for Descendants of 1921 Race Massacre

Tulsa’s mayor, Monroe Nichols, has introduced a $105 million private trust initiative to support descendants of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. This plan, referred to as ‘Road to Repair,’ seeks to address the historical injustices of the Greenwood District’s destruction by providing housing assistance, scholarships, and community revitalization. The initiative deliberately avoids the term ‘reparations,’ emphasizing collaboration and private funding to bridge racial divides and prevent political polarization.

The massacre, one of the worst instances of racial violence in American history, led to the destruction of over 1,000 homes, churches, and businesses in Greenwood, known as ‘Black Wall Street.’ Historians estimate that up to 300 people were killed, though the exact number remains uncertain due to many victims being buried in unmarked graves. The city of Tulsa initially blocked most claims from Greenwood residents, except for one from a White shop owner.

Nichols first announced the ‘Road to Repair’ plan in early June, with the goal of securing $105 million in assets by June 1, 2026. The plan includes $60 million for revitalizing buildings and community improvements, with the remaining funds directed toward helping descendants purchase homes or land and fund scholarships. Cash payments to direct descendants or the last survivors are not included in the plan.

The private nature of the initiative has garnered support from local Republicans, who traditionally oppose reparations. The Tulsa Republican Club endorsed the approach, highlighting the city’s focus on private support and donations as a means of community-led progress. Nichols emphasizes the need for a non-political solution, stating that the plan should pass any ‘legal test’ to ensure its legitimacy.

While the proposal has been described as a form of reparations by some, Nichols insists on a more neutral framing to avoid the term’s political connotations. He draws inspiration from Evanston, Illinois, which became the first city in the U.S. to implement a government-funded reparations program in 2019. Though the funding sources differ, Nichols acknowledges the historical focus on housing as a key aspect of redress.

Additionally, the city plans to continue the investigation into mass graves to provide closure for families who may not yet know the fate of their ancestors. Over 45,000 pages of historical documents related to the massacre have been released, revealing promises that were never fulfilled. With the release of these documents and the launch of the trust, the city aims to offer descendants the opportunity to receive the recognition and support they have long deserved.

Monroe Nichols, the first Black mayor of Tulsa, reflects on the significance of the initiative, stating, ‘Descendants who for so long have not necessarily been given their due, now have an opportunity for that to happen.’ The plan exemplifies a community-driven effort to address historical injustices and move forward collectively, setting a potential precedent for other cities seeking similar resolutions.