Watch Rise Again: Tulsa and the Red Summer

Rise Again: Tulsa and the Red Summer is a documentary film from 2021 that examines the history of the Tulsa race massacre of 1921, a tragic event that led to the deaths of countless Black residents and the destruction of the Greenwood district, also known as "Black Wall Street." The film is directed by Emmy-winning filmmaker Dawn Porter, and features interviews with prominent historians, community leaders, and descendants of massacre survivors. The film also explores the wider context of the Red Summer of 1919, a period marked by racial violence and unrest across the country.

Throughout the film, viewers are taken on a journey through time, delving into the lives of the people who lived in the Greenwood district prior to the massacre, and the events that led up to the violence. The film also highlights the remarkable efforts of Black survivors and their descendants to rebuild their community in the aftermath of the destruction.

One of the key themes of Rise Again: Tulsa and the Red Summer is the power of community and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity. Through interviews with survivors and their descendants, the film shows how the survivors refused to be defeated by the events of 1921, and instead worked tirelessly to rebuild their homes and businesses.

The film also explores some of the wider political and social factors that contributed to the massacre, including the rise of the Ku Klux Klan and the white supremacist agenda that sought to maintain a strict racial hierarchy at all costs. By contextualizing the events of 1921 within this broader historical context, Rise Again: Tulsa and the Red Summer offers a powerful critique of systemic racism and the ways in which it has shaped American society.

Throughout the film, viewers are presented with a rich tapestry of voices and perspectives, from local politicians and activists to descendants of massacre survivors. This diversity of perspectives is one of the film's greatest strengths, allowing viewers to gain a multifaceted understanding of the events of 1921 and their ongoing impact.

At its core, Rise Again: Tulsa and the Red Summer is a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of the Tulsa race massacre, and a call to action for viewers to confront the ongoing legacy of racism and inequality in our society. The film is a moving tribute to the resilience and strength of the human spirit, a testament to the power of community, and a timely reminder of the urgent need for racial justice in America.

Overall, Rise Again: Tulsa and the Red Summer is a must-see documentary film for anyone interested in American history, racial justice, and the power of community to overcome adversity. With its powerful storytelling, immersive visuals, and diverse range of voices and perspectives, the film is a touching tribute to the victims and survivors of the Tulsa race massacre, and a powerful call to action for all those committed to building a more just and equitable future.