In a move to address the lingering wounds of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, the Beyond Apology Commission has unveiled a set of housing recommendations that aspire to foster intergenerational wealth for survivors and their descendants residing in North Tulsa's Greenwood area. Mayor Nichols has expressed his gratitude towards the Commission for its commitment and research that strives to bridge the socioeconomic divide deeply entrenched by the historic act of racial violence. "As mayor, I am grateful for the dedication and work of the Beyond Apology Commission," Nichols said, emphasizing the need to harmonize around a plan that acknowledges the Massacre's aftermath according to the City of Tulsa recent announcement.
The Recommendations from the Beyond Apology Commission were developed from a community-led process initiated back in 2022 and incorporated findings from the 2023 Beyond Apology Report. The 13-member commission's directive, as mandated by an executive order, is to not only reconcile but to actively restore and unite the city for a shared prosperity that transcends past injustices. "I am proud of the work this commission has done and is doing to ensure that the voices of the Beyond Apology community are not only acknowledged but put into action," stated Kristi Williams, the Commission Chair, pertaining to their ongoing efforts as reported by the City of Tulsa press room.
The BAC's recommendations signify a significant acknowledgment of systemic disparities that have prevailed for generations within the African American community in Tulsa. District 1 City Councilor Vanessa Hall-Harper underscored the magnitude of the initiative, "This initiative is a pivotal move in confronting the enduring impact of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre and redlining in North Tulsa, transforming community-driven solutions into lasting progress." These sentiments were echoed by Greg Robinson II, who lauded both the commission's work and Mayor Nichols' commitment as steps "towards long overdue justice and repair" according to the City of Tulsa website.
These initial recommendations are but a single stride in an expansive plan that includes seven other priority areas: Education; Systems Change; Financial Compensation; Community & Economic Development; Land; Health & Wellness; and Cultural Identity. The Beyond Apology Commission aims to comprehensively tackle each domain to ensure a holistic upliftment for the affected communities. The next meeting of the Commission scheduled for February 21, will take place at Tulsa City Hall and promises to further address these pivotal concerns as noted by the City of Tulsa.
