Discussion Question
Greenwood and Respectability Politics
Identify the reasons that Greenwood was a target for the mob. What does the white Oklahoman response to Greenwood (the riots and the aftermath) reveal about the attitudes of the white southerner toward the success of black communities? What implications does this attitude have for contemporary times? The Greenwood Riots occurred during the height of "respectability politics." During this period of history many black leaders actively promoted this method of "uplift" but it continues even today. Ask yourself, "What might the residents of Greenwood say to people who promoted/promote this philosophy?" Here is a clip on the definition of the term "respectability politics" and how this practice works in 2016.