Tulsa Race Massacre Survivors Call For Reparations In Congressional Testimony

The three known last living survivors of the Tulsa Race Massacre testified Wednesday before a House Judiciary subcommittee in Washington.

The survivors, along with descendants and advocates, told lawmakers they have waited long enough for justice and reparations.

Members of the Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights and Civil Justice gave standing ovations after 107-year-old Viola Fletcher, 101-year-old Hughes Van Ellis and 106-year-old Lessie Benningfield Randle testified.

"I'm asking that my country acknowledge what has happened to me, the tremors and the pain and the loss,” said Fletcher.

In an interview with News On 6 after the hearing, Fletcher also said she will never forget the horrific moments she witnessed as a seven-year-old.

"Killing people and burning houses,” explained Fletcher.

Fletcher's brother, Van Ellis, is a World War II veteran and called for justice while there are still living survivors.

"We aren't asking for a handout,” said Van Ellis. “All we're asking is for a chance to be treated like a first-class citizen.”

Benningfield Randle testified remotely from Tulsa.

"It seems like justice in America is always so slow or not possible for Black people," said Benningfield Randle.

Descendants of survivors who have died, like Dr. Tiffany Crutcher, also testified.

"Tulsa's government failed its people,” Crutcher said to lawmakers.

Crutcher told News On 6 she is optimistic the hearing will lead to repair, respect and restitution.

"Hopefully that will be what moves hearts and minds to do the right thing,” said Crutcher.

Lawmakers could take what they heard from today's hearing into consideration for any future bills.