During the early 20th century, the Greenwood district of Tulsa, Oklahoma, flourished as a vibrant hub of black entrepreneurship, earning itself the nickname Black Wall Street. The community thrived with successful businesses and a prosperous economy, showcasing the resilience, ingenuity, and spirit of its black residents. However, this tale of progress was tragically marred by an outburst of racism and violence in 1921.
In a horrifying display of racial hatred, the simmering racist sentiments among the white residents of Tulsa erupted into a devastating episode of violence against the black community. The exact toll remains uncertain, but it is believed that up to 300 black individuals lost their lives, and approximately 35 blocks of the Greenwood neighbourhood were reduced to ruins. This tragic event stands as a haunting reminder of the profound systemic racism that plagued American society.
By highlighting this historical context, we honor the memory of the resilient black community that once thrived in the Greenwood district. We acknowledge the enduring legacy of Black Wall Street, celebrating the entrepreneurship and economic strength it embodied. As we engage with this product, let us remember the immense struggle for equality and justice, working together to ensure that such acts of violence and oppression never stain our collective future again.
