The City of Tulsa, in a collaborative effort with Intermountain Forensics and the Greenwood Cultural Center, is set to conduct a series of Community Engagement Genealogy Workshops from April 25 to April 27, 2025. This initiative aims to engage residents, particularly descendants of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre and those from the Greenwood and North Tulsa communities, in exploring their genealogical roots.
The workshops will occur at the Greenwood Cultural Center, a venue that symbolizes resilience and cultural heritage within the community. Interested participants are encouraged to pre-register through the Greenwood Cultural Center’s website at www.greenwoodculturalcenter.org/genealogy-workshop. The workshops will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, with an optional workday on Sunday from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Due to the sensitivity associated with genetic genealogy, attendance is limited to those who have registered in advance, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding participant privacy.
These workshops represent a significant component of the City of Tulsa’s initiative to foster public engagement and raise awareness around personal and collective histories linked to the tragic events of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. The aim is to empower community members by providing them with the tools, resources, and expert guidance needed to conduct their genealogical research effectively.
Participants will have the unique opportunity to learn from seasoned genealogists who will cover essential aspects of family research. Key topics will include:
– Techniques and tools for effective family tree construction, such as the availability of Ancestry Institution resources, facilitated through a partnership with Ancestry.com.
– Strategies for expanding and enriching one’s family tree.
– Access to a variety of research materials intended to assist participants in their ongoing genealogical explorations.
In addition, this program aligns with the broader genealogical investigation that has been undertaken by the City concerning unmarked graves found at Oaklawn Cemetery. Recent findings have brought to light several surnames and significant locations that may resonate with participants and their family histories. A detailed list of these newfound surnames and locations can be accessed online through the City of Tulsa’s designated website.
These workshops not only serve as a means to celebrate and understand the legacy of an often-overlooked chapter in American history but also aim to build a stronger sense of community through shared stories and connections. More information about the workshops can be found in the official announcement.
