Viola Fletcher, also known as Viola Ford Fletcher, is an extraordinary figure in American history, revered for her resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Born on June 10, 1925, she is one of the last known survivors of the Tulsa Race Massacre, a tragic event that occurred on May 31 and June 1, 1921, in the Greenwood District of Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Viola Fletcher's early life was marked by the challenges and discrimination faced by African Americans during that era. Growing up in the segregated South, she experienced racial segregation, limited opportunities, and systemic injustice firsthand. However, her strong spirit and desire for a better life pushed her to pursue education and strive for success.
The most significant and devastating event in Viola's life was the Tulsa Race Massacre, which took place when she was just a young girl of six years old. The racially motivated attack on the prosperous Black community of Greenwood left her family and thousands of others homeless and traumatized. The destruction and loss she witnessed at such a tender age left an indelible mark on her life and shaped her perspective on racial inequality and the importance of standing up against injustice.
Despite the immense hardships she endured, Viola Fletcher remained resilient. She eventually married, raised a family, and, along with her descendants, worked tirelessly to keep the memory of the Tulsa Race Massacre alive. She became a vocal advocate for acknowledgment, reparations, and accountability for the atrocities committed during the massacre.
As an elder and a living witness of that tragic event, Viola Fletcher took on a prominent role in educating the public about the history and legacy of the Tulsa Race Massacre. She participated in various interviews, documentaries, and public speaking events, sharing her first-hand experiences and urging society to confront its past and work toward reconciliation.
Over the years, Viola's unwavering dedication to truth and justice garnered recognition and respect from people across the nation. Her contributions to civil rights history have been acknowledged, and she has received numerous honors and awards for her advocacy and commitment to social justice.
Viola Fletcher's life serves as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of speaking out against injustice. Her determination to preserve the memory of the Tulsa Race Massacre and fight for reparations for its survivors and descendants has had a lasting impact on the ongoing conversations about racial equality and historical reconciliation in the United States. Her story continues to inspire generations to work towards a more just and equitable society.