There's unexpected backlash for an anti-racism event. Racism Stinks, a grass-roots organization in Tulsa, is being criticized for a unity fun run.
Racism Stinks held its first event last year at La Fortune Park.
This year, organizers moved it to the Brady District, but many people are still unhappy the area kept the name Brady. The street was originally named after Tate Brady who had ties to the KKK. It 2013, the name was changed to instead honor Mathew Brady, a civil war photographer.
"This is where the worst race riot in history happened this is where the controversy about the name was we can't do it anywhere else," said Richard Baxter, Racism Stinks creator.
Baxter said he understands the hurt feelings over Tulsa's history of racial tension.
"The scar still cuts deep," Baxter said.
Posts on Facebook accuse the event of celebrating reconciliation too soon. Baxter said the topic needs to be confronted by the whole community and this event is a way to do it.
"I want people to see past their nose and come to the realization that we will reach the fruition of reconciliation."
"This is where the worst race riot in history happened this is where the controversy about the name was we can't do it anywhere else."
The race is set for May 28. There's still time to get involved as a runner or sponsor. Find more information on RacismStinks.com
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