TULSA, Okla. — Family and friends gathered Friday morning to celebrate a historic milestone for Lessie Benningfield Randle, also known as “Mother Randle,” the last known living survivor of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.
The celebration was held at All Souls Unitarian Church in midtown Tulsa in honor of Mother Randle’s 112th birthday.
Born November 10, 1914, in Okmulgee County, Mother Randle was just a young child when she witnessed the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, which devastated the Greenwood District and left a lasting impact on the Tulsa community.
Those celebrating her birthday say her presence continues to serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of unity and togetherness.
“Traveling with her and having her here in today’s time, she represents togetherness, and I think that helps bring people together with all the tragedy that’s happened and try to make it a more positive thing by bringing us all together,” one attendee said.
The celebration also highlighted ongoing efforts to preserve Mother Randle’s legacy. Organizers and supporters say they are working toward securing a national monument designation in her honor.
