Greenwood Rising

Today, we remember the Tulsa Race Massacre and the destruction of Greenwood, a thriving community known as Black Wall Street.

For many years, the story of what happened in Tulsa was left out of classrooms, history books and public conversations. Organizations like Greenwood Rising are helping keep this history alive by sharing it with new generations.

Road to Remembrance: Two Cities, One Mission is an annual partnership between Greenwood Rising and the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum that brings students to both sites to learn about two defining moments in Oklahoma history and the lessons they still carry today. The program will return this fall for a new school year.

At Greenwood Rising, we will host a candlelight vigil on May 31st at 8:00 PM to honor the lives lost in the massacre 105 years ago.

We invite our community to join us in a moment of silence as we reflect, remember, and stand together in unity. This gathering is a time to honor the resilience of survivors and descendants, and to continue preserving and sharing the truth of the history of Black Wall Street.

We are honored to be joined by our Mayor and descendants of the Greenwood community as we come together in remembrance and solidarity.

May this vigil serve as a reminder that while we carry this history with us, so too do we carry strength, hope, and a commitment to ensuring Greenwood’s legacy is never forgotten

An important weekend is approaching for our Tulsa community.

“Go Green” is more than a gesture—it is a shared act of remembrance, unity, and resilience. As we approach May 30th, we honor the lives forever changed by the tragedy of 1921, and as May 31st marks Greenwood Remembrance Day, we hold space for reflection on the history of Greenwood and Black Wall Street—its loss, its strength, and the generations who carried its story forward when it was nearly buried.

One hundred and five years later, we remember not only what was taken, but what endured: the courage of survivors, the dignity of descendants, and the enduring spirit of a community that refuses to be forgotten.

We invite everyone across Tulsa to show their support by wearing green and helping “light up” our city in solidarity. Let green be a visible reminder of remembrance, healing, and togetherness—because we honor the past while standing together in the present.

You are also invited to join us on Sunday, May 31st, at 8:00 PM at Greenwood Rising for a candlelight vigil and moment of silence as we reflect, remember, and stand together in unity.

At Greenwood Rising, we pause to honor and remember Bobby Eaton Sr., a devoted leader whose life reflected the enduring strength, resilience, and spirit of Greenwood.

A descendant of a Tulsa Race Massacre survivor, Bobby Eaton Sr. carried forward a powerful family legacy rooted in perseverance and community. His grandfather, Joseph Eaton, owned a barber shop in the historic Greenwood District — the heart of Black Wall Street — and helped rebuild the community after the devastation of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.

Today, Greenwood Rising is honored to preserve a piece of that legacy through a barber chair donated by the Eaton family from Joseph Eaton’s barbershop dating back to the 1920s. The chair stands as a powerful reminder of the resilience, entrepreneurship, and determination that helped rebuild Greenwood after unimaginable loss.

Raised in Greenwood, Bobby Eaton Sr. continued that legacy through his dedication to Black entrepreneurship, advocacy for justice, and unwavering service to the community. His leadership and commitment helped preserve the stories and spirit that allow us to continue telling Greenwood’s history today.

We are deeply grateful for his life, his service, and the generations of strength he represented. His impact will continue to inspire future generations, and his legacy will forever remain a part of Greenwood’s living history.

Don’t forget about this exciting event coming up on Tuesday, May 26th! Scan the QR code or visit our website to register!

As Tulsa prepares for Legacy Fest and Remembrance Weekend, Greenwood Rising invites the community to a powerful conversation on history, storytelling, and the legacy of Greenwood.

Historian Hannibal B. Johnson joins acclaimed playwrights Tim Long and Jerome Johnson of LoJoWERKz to discuss their original musical, "A Song of Greenwood." More than 30 years in the making, the production brings Greenwood’s resilience and legacy to life through powerful storytelling and music.

We also invite you to an upcoming luncheon featuring Retired General Russel L. Honoré on June 1, 2026, as part of Greenwood Rising’s 5-year anniversary celebration. Visit our website for registration details!

As we celebrate our 5-year anniversary, Greenwood Rising is excited to announce that registration is now open for our Resilience Leadership Luncheon featuring speaker Retired General Russel L. Honoré.

Join us on Monday, June 1, 2026, at 11:30 AM for an inspiring conversation as General Honoré shares powerful insights on leadership and resilience.

This is a ticketed event, and registration is required. Simply scan the QR code or visit our website to secure your spot.

Greenwood Rising guests - please be aware of road closures starting Friday, May 15th at noon.

🚧 STREET CLOSURE 🚧

When: Friday the 15th, noon to Saturday at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Greenwood and Archer

What: Black Wall Street Rally

Starting tomorrow, Greenwood Ave. from Archer to John Hope Franklin Blvd and east on Archer to Lansing Ave will be closed to vehicle traffic until Saturday night.

For more information about the public event, check them out at Black Wallstreet Rally or https://blackwallstreetrally.com/

Potential guests, please be aware that the Black Wall Street Rally, a popular motorcycle event, will be taking place in the Greenwood District May 14-16, 2026. We expect heavy traffic both inside and outside the building throughout the weekend. Visit www.GreenwoodRising.org to reserve your tickets in advance!

Greenwood Rising has had an exciting few days!

On Saturday morning, we welcomed players from the Banana Ball Championship League teams, the Indianapolis Clowns and Texas Tailgaters, to the History Center.

After Friday night’s game, two Greenwood Rising staff members spoke with both teams about the History Center and its mission. We were thrilled by the players’ and staff’s enthusiasm for the history of the Greenwood District.

A huge thank you to the Indianapolis Clowns and Texas Tailgaters for taking time out of their busy schedules to visit. Best of luck the rest of the season!

Important Notice

Today, Tuesday, May 12, Greenwood Rising will close early at 4:30 PM in preparation for our Private Donor Reception & Annual Meeting.

We will resume regular operating hours tomorrow, Wednesday, May 13, reopening at 10:00 AM.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support!