Survivor of 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. Ellis was living with his family in Tulsa, Oklahoma in May of 1921 when one of the worst events in United States history occurred: the Tulsa Race Massacre, where mobs of white people waged an all-out war on the thriving black Greenwood District of Tulsa. Ellis and his family escaped the rampage in a wagon. After living through this horrendous event of life-long impact, the family traveled to other Oklahoma cities and towns seeking work a sense of belonging, and economic stability. The family also ventured to Kansas and labored as sharecroppers for white farm owners. Ellis enlisted in the segregated United States Army in 1943, serving with the 234th AAA Gun Battalion in Bombay, Calcutta, and Saipan. Ellis was assigned to Island Sweep to capture Japanese soldiers. He received a Bronze Star and the Ruptured Duck medal. When Ellis was identified as a Tulsa Race Massacre survivor, he welcomed the opportunity to dedicate his time, energy, and efforts to this worthy cause. He worked relentlessly to participate in all engagements regardless of location. In the last few years, Hughes appeared in twenty-five-plus viral videos for his work in restorative justice. In May 2021, Hughes provided testimony before the United States Congress with tears in his eyes and hope in his heart, stating, "I still believe in America," even after all the segregation and racism he experienced throughout his life. In the same year, he received many awards and commendation letters and participated in local, state, and national interviews. Ellis met and received a personal letter from President Joseph Biden and was gifted with the Seal of Office from Vice President Kamala Harris. He was recognized by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Dat P. Tran. State recognition included a Human Spirit Award from the Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus, Chair, Rep. Regina Goodwin, a personal visit from United States State Senator Michael Bennet, Colorado, and a proclamation from Mayor Michael B. Hancock, City and County of Denver. Hughes received international recognition from Ghanaian and Nigerian Tribes for his participation and support of African diaspora mutually beneficial activities based on unity, love, and brotherhood. Hughes was presented with a Certificate of Chieftaincy Title. With the death of Ellis, there are now two known survivors of the Tulsa Race Massacre: Viola Fletcher, older sister of Hughes Van Ellis, and Lessie Benningfield Randle.