Can We Learn from the Past? Using SEL to Address Racial Violence

The Tulsa Race Massacre, also known as the Black Wall Street Massacre, was a horrific event that took place over two days, May 31st and June 1st, 1921, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Here's a breakdown of the details, lasting impacts, and its connection to racial injustice and diversity in education:

Details of the Massacre:

• A young black man, Dick Rowland, was accused of assaulting a white woman. Despite no evidence, a white mob formed, intent on lynching Rowland at the courthouse where he was being held by Black veterans.

• A confrontation ensued, shots were fired, and the mob, aided by city officials, descended upon Greenwood, a thriving Black community known as "Black Wall Street" due to its economic prosperity.

• Over the next 18 hours, white mobs looted and burned businesses and homes in Greenwood.

• National Guard troops arrived and restored order, but not before inflicting further devastation on the Black community.

Lasting Impacts:

• Estimates of deaths range from 50 to 300, with thousands left homeless and a once-flourishing Black community destroyed.

• The massacre was largely covered up for decades, with survivors silenced and the historical record distorted.

• The economic and social development of Black Tulsans was severely crippled.

• It became a symbol of racial violence and the fragility of Black success in America.

Connection to Racial Injustice and Education:

• The Tulsa Race Massacre exemplifies the deep-rooted racism in American history.

• Ignoring or downplaying this event perpetuates racial injustice.

• Including the Tulsa Race Massacre in school curriculums alongside other events of racial violence fosters a more complete understanding of American history.

• Diversity in education, with educators and curriculum that represent multiple viewpoints, allows for a more nuanced discussion about race and racism.

• By acknowledging this dark chapter, we can work towards a more just and equitable future.

Further Resources:

• Tulsa Historical Society & Museum: 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre

• The Encyclopedia of Oklahoma History and Culture: Tulsa Race Massacre

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The Case for Social Emotional Learning

The Tulsa Race Massacre story connects to Social Emotional Learning (SEL) in online programs in a few key ways, especially for a program titled "Identity, Expression and Desire" at Self Exploration Academy:

• Understanding Identity: The massacre was a brutal attack on Black identity and economic success. SEL can help students explore their own identities and understand how historical events can shape group identities.

• Processing Difficult Emotions: The Tulsa Race Massacre evokes feelings of anger, sadness, and injustice. SEL programs can teach students healthy ways to manage these emotions and have constructive conversations about them.

• Empathy and Perspective-Taking: SEL can help students develop empathy for the victims of the massacre and understand the ongoing impact on the Black community. "Identity, Expression and Desire" could explore how historical events shape perspectives and lived experiences.

• Social Justice and Advocacy: Learning about the Tulsa Race Massacre can inspire students to take action against racism and social injustice. SEL can equip them with the skills to advocate for themselves and others.

Here's how this might be applied in "Identity, Expression and Desire":

• Students could explore how the concept of "Black Wall Street" relates to themes of economic empowerment and racial identity.

• The program could facilitate discussions about the emotional impact of the massacre on both the victims and perpetrators.

• Students could be encouraged to research other acts of racial violence and explore how they connect to issues of identity and social justice.

By including historical events like the Tulsa Race Massacre and equipping students with SEL tools, programs like "Identity, Expression and Desire" can foster a deeper understanding of complex issues and empower students to make a positive impact on the world. 

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