More than 50 all-Black cities as soon as existed in Oklahoma, however solely 13 nonetheless exist.
Now, the Oklahoma Center For The Humanities is telling the cities’ tales via a brand new exhibit on the Henry Zarrow Center For Arts And Education.
Organizers stated the exhibit highlights this vital legacy in Oklahoma.
The individuals who came around stated it fills within the gaps for a historical past lesson they didn’t study at school.
“Didn’t learn all this history we’re learning now,” Lori Dreiling, Tulsa.
Dreiling grew up in Oklahoma and had no clue in regards to the greater than 50 all-Black cities throughout Oklahoma.
She stated the exhibit will assist folks perceive Oklahoma’s tales that are not all the time informed.
“Really happy to see all that Tulsa is doing to recognize our history, whether it’s good or bad. But making everybody aware of it,” stated Dreiling.
The exhibit options historic paperwork, footage, and movie.
Organizers stated the exhibit permits guests to discover Oklahoma’s Black cities by studying how they got here to be and what they regarded like with booming companies and alternative for Black folks.
“In the descriptions, it has like when the art piece was happening and what was happening and like the context. So they’ll get to learn more about the Black towns. I think that’s cool,” said Ninemi Ortiz.
But organizers said this isn’t just Black history. Thirteen towns are still here, fighting to stay alive.
“These are also not just set in the past. They have a presence, they are there, they have a future that the leaders of these towns are working for,” said Dr. Dayne Riley, Oklahoma Center for the Humanities.
These towns still have major events like the Black Rodeo in Boley or the Blues Fest in Rentiesville.
The communities survive by people keeping the legacy alive.
“So going and experiencing these places would be one thing, but also being aware of them and thinking about them, and talking to the people from these places to learn more about them,” said Dr. Riley.
This event is free and open to the public and will run through February 25.
The exhibition will also be the site of a conference entitled “All-Black Towns of Oklahoma,” hosted by the Oklahoma Center for the Humanities, on February 18, 2023.
This occasion will characteristic UNC professor Karla Slocum, mayors from Tullahassee and Rentiesville, Hannibal Johnson, Eli Grayson, Q Lansana, and state senator Kevin Matthews.
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