top of page
DNA Picture black-white.jpg

Funding FAQs

Have questions about our funding? We have answers.

  • What is the status of the 1921 Graves Investigation?
    You can read more about the progress from the City of Tulsa website here: https://www.cityoftulsa.org/government/mayor-of-tulsa/1921-graves-investigation/ You can also see our latest project updates here.
  • What can I do to help with identification of the remains from the mass grave?
    We’ve created an online form for you to provide any information you think would be helpful - stories, images, links, family trees, etc. If you need help filling out the form, you can visit any Tulsa City-County Library location. Also, you can volunteer your DNA for comparison to the remains that have been found. Additionally, Intermountain Forensics is a nonprofit organization. We appreciate any donations to help cover lab costs and other expenses related to this important project. You can make your tax-deductible donation here: link
  • Why are you collecting stories, DNA and family trees from people that may have had family ties to the massacre?
    This information will help us gather preliminary data that will be very important for our genealogical research phase. The more information we are able to gather regarding the families from 1921, the greater chances we have of identification.
  • How do I take a DNA test?
    You can take a test with any company that makes DNA tests available to consumers, such as FamilyTreeDNA.com, MyHeritage.com, Ancestry.com, or 23andMe.com. Each company will have detailed instructions on how to create an account, take a test and send it back for results. Please NOTE: For those who believe they may be direct descendants of Tulsa Race Massacre victims, a free DNA kit can be provided so that your family’s DNA is represented in this project. Please contact us at info@tulsa1921dna.org to discuss your options. Once your results are ready, the next step will be copying your DNA file to GEDmatch.com. This will involve creating a free account at GEDmatch and uploading the file. We can walk you through this process, or there are instructions on the website and helpful YouTube videos. After you have uploaded your DNA file, GEDmatch will assign you an anonymous “Kit Number.” Please send your kit number to us at the email here when your GEDmatch upload is complete. If you need assistance, please contact us at info@tulsa1921dna.org
  • Will my DNA profile be kept confidential?
    When uploading to GEDmatch, you will be allowed to choose the level of confidentiality you want. While our genetic genealogy partners are working on this project, your profile will be available to them for matching in GEDmatch. After the work is complete, or if you change your mind at any time about allowing your DNA to be compared to the unidentified remains, your profile can be deleted. If you decide to keep your profile in GEDmatch, you will help with this kind of work in the future. For a detailed chart outlining the different paths available, please see our DNA Comparison Pathways. If you would like more detailed information about this process, please also see our Investigative Genetic Genealogy (IGG) statement.
  • I’ve already taken a DNA test. What do I do next?
    IF you have NOT uploaded your DNA profile to GEDmatch: Click here for a video on how to do it! GEDmatch will assign you a “Kit Number.” Please send your kit number to us at info@tulsa1921dna.org when your GEDmatch upload is complete. IF you have already uploaded to GEDmatch: Please send your kit number to us at info@tulsa1921dna.org. * Upload to GEDmatch is voluntary. DNA testing companies do not automatically upload DNA files from their clients. Please be sure to read the terms of service and site policy at GEDmatch to make sure you are comfortable with them. For a detailed chart outlining the different paths available, please see our DNA Comparison Pathways. Users should consider that even though GEDmatch was created for genealogical research, it can and has been used for other purposes.
  • What happens to my DNA file after this project is over?
    That is completely up to you. Here are your options: 1. Keep your DNA information in GEDmatch. With this option, you can either be an active participant and continue to see and connect with your matches OR just leave your DNA in GEDmatch and allow it to be a part of the database that helps in other genetic genealogy research. 2. Delete your account in GEDmatch. Your DNA cannot and will not be accessed or used for further research.
  • Are there ways to help that don’t require me to submit my DNA?
    Of course! We still would like to hear from you. You can fill out our form where you can submit stories, your family tree, images, links and more here: online form You can also DONATE to help cover the costs of lab fees, test kits, community outreach, and other parts of this important project.
Still have questions?
We'd love to hear from you.
bottom of page