Mayor Nichols Announces First Step in Plan to Address Generational Impacts from 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre

3/17/2025

Mayor Nichols Designates June 1 as Tulsa Race Massacre Observance Day and Announces Next Steps are Forthcoming

Watch the video from Mayor Nichols announcing the new holiday

Today, 104 years after the Tulsa Race Massacre, and 104 days into office, Mayor Monroe Nichols signed an Executive Order recognizing June 1 as Tulsa Race Massacre Observance Day in the City of Tulsa. This announcement serves as the first step in his plan to help unify Tulsans and heal multi-generational wounds from the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.

Mayor Nichols will make a larger announcement surrounding the next steps in his plan on Sunday, April 6 at Morning Star Baptist Church, 1014 E. Pine St., during the 10:30 a.m. service. Media are invited to attend.

“For too long, this tragic event was erased from public discourse, leaving generations without an understanding of its impact on Tulsa and our nation,” Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols said. “It’s left to this generation of Tulsans to find a united path forward that acknowledges our history, addresses the harm caused by it and moves us forward together."

Since taking office in December 2024, Mayor Nichols has been working on a framework for addressing longstanding disparities in North Tulsa and Greenwood that exist from the 1921 Tulsa Massacre. The initial step announced today includes:

Designation of June 1 as Tulsa Race Massacre Observance Day - In remembrance of the lives lost during the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, this holiday will serve as a day for residents, schools, businesses, and community organizations to participate in appropriate observances, activities, and discussions that reflect the significance of the day and forever honor the memory of those who lost their lives. The holiday formally acknowledges the lasting impact of the Massacre and promotes education and public awareness to ensure this history is never forgotten. The City of Tulsa organization will observe this holiday similarly to other City holidays.

Complete Framework to be Shared April 6. Mayor Nichols will share his complete framework and path forward for the community on Sunday, April 6.

Nichols shared his eagerness to outline next steps surrounding disparities that have lasted generations but also recognized the tireless work that has been put in from advocates and community members across Tulsa for years. Through their work and with the commitment from Mayor Nichols, the road to repair is underway.