Original Justice for living survivors of the 1921 Tulsa/Greenwood Race Massacre Act
Summary
The "Original Justice for living survivors of the 1921 Tulsa/Greenwood Race Massacre Act" aims to provide compensatory and punitive damages to the living survivors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. Specifically, it allocates $10,398,368 in compensatory damages and $10,398,368 in punitive damages to each surviving victim, Viola Ford Fletcher and Lessie Benningfield Randle, or their estates if they die before payment. The bill directs the Secretary of the Treasury to make these payments within 30 days of certification by the Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights, using funds from the Judgment Fund.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would provide financial compensation to the two remaining living survivors of the Tulsa Race Massacre. It would also formally acknowledge the failure of the Federal Government to protect the residents of Greenwood during the massacre and to provide justice in the aftermath. This action could set a precedent for federal redress in cases of historical injustices where governmental bodies failed to protect citizens.
Potential Benefits
- Provides direct financial compensation to the survivors of the Tulsa Race Massacre.
- Acknowledges the historical injustice and the failure of governmental bodies to protect citizens.
- Potentially sets a precedent for federal redress in similar cases of historical injustice.
- Addresses a long-standing grievance and promotes social healing.
- Uses existing government funds (Judgment Fund) for payment.
Potential Disadvantages
- The cost to taxpayers, although limited to the specified amount, could be a concern for some.
- May open the door for numerous other claims of historical injustices, potentially straining government resources.
- The act explicitly states that the payments are in full satisfaction of all claims, potentially limiting future legal recourse.
- Some may argue that monetary compensation is insufficient to address the full scope of the harm caused by the massacre.
- The focus on only two individuals may overshadow the broader needs of the Tulsa community affected by the massacre.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Constitution is complex. While there is no explicit constitutional provision mandating reparations for historical injustices, Congress has broad authority to legislate for the general welfare under Article I, Section 8. The Fifth Amendment's Takings Clause requires just compensation for private property taken for public use, but this bill addresses a different type of harm. The Fourteenth Amendment's Equal Protection Clause could be invoked to argue for the need to remedy past discriminatory practices. However, the Constitution does not explicitly address reparations for historical injustices.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).