Viola Ford Fletcher, survivor of 1921 Tulsa Massacre, dies age 111

Viola Ford Fletcher, survivor of 1921 Tulsa Massacre, dies age 111

## Viola Ford Fletcher, Centennial Witness to Tulsa’s Greenwood Tragedy, Passes Away at 111

Viola Ford Fletcher, one of the last known survivors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, has died at the age of 111. Her passing marks the end of an era, severing a direct link to one of the most devastating acts of racial violence in American history and silencing a powerful voice that tirelessly advocated for remembrance and justice.

Fletcher, affectionately known as “Mother Fletcher,” lived through the horrors of May 31 and June 1, 1921, when a white mob descended upon the Greenwood District, a thriving Black community in Tulsa, Oklahoma, known as “Black Wall Street.” The attack resulted in the destruction of homes and businesses, the displacement of thousands, and the deaths of an estimated 300 Black residents. Fletcher, a young girl at the time, witnessed the chaos and devastation firsthand, an experience that indelibly shaped her life and fueled her decades-long quest for recognition and reconciliation.

For much of her life, the Tulsa Race Massacre remained a largely forgotten chapter in American history. However, in recent years, as awareness of racial injustice has grown, Fletcher emerged as a pivotal figure in bringing the truth of Greenwood to light. She became a vocal advocate for reparations and a tireless champion for historical accuracy. Her compelling testimony before Congress in 2021, delivered with unwavering clarity and dignity, resonated deeply with the nation. She spoke of the terror she experienced as a child, the enduring trauma inflicted upon her community, and the urgent need for accountability.

“I still see Black men being shot, Black bodies lying in the street,” she testified. “I still smell smoke and see fire. I still see Black businesses being burned. I still hear airplanes flying overhead. I hear the screams.”

Fletcher’s advocacy extended beyond the halls of Congress. She participated in documentaries, gave countless interviews, and traveled extensively to share her story and educate future generations about the massacre’s lasting impact. She became a symbol of resilience and a testament to the enduring power of memory. Her unwavering commitment to justice inspired countless individuals to confront uncomfortable truths about America’s past and to work towards a more equitable future.

While the fight for reparations and full acknowledgment of the Tulsa Race Massacre continues, Fletcher’s legacy will undoubtedly endure. Her courage in sharing her story, her unwavering dedication to justice, and her profound impact on the national conversation about race and reconciliation will continue to inspire activists, historians, and policymakers for generations to come.

The loss of Viola Ford Fletcher is a profound loss for the nation. She was a living embodiment of history, a witness to unspeakable tragedy, and a powerful voice for justice. Her passing serves as a stark reminder of the importance of remembering the past, confronting its injustices, and striving towards a future where such atrocities are never repeated. Her life, though marked by trauma, was ultimately a testament to the enduring power of hope, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of truth.

This article was created based on information from various sources and rewritten for clarity and originality.