ST. AUGUSTINE BEACH, Fla. – In a historic moment for St. Augustine Beach, the city officially proclaimed February 2025 as Black History Month.
It was the first time in the city’s history that it made the independent declaration.
Given the city’s significant role in the civil rights movement, which included the Wade-ins in 1964, community members said this milestone was long overdue, but city leaders say it’s a step in the right direction.
The proclamation took place in front of a busy City Commission meeting on Monday.
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“The time is now,” Mayor Dylan Rumrell said, ”So this is the time to do it.”
Incorporated in 1959, St. Augustine Beach is closely tied to the broader historical significance of the region.
During the 1960s, the region was in the spotlight during the fight for civil rights, yet the city of St. Augustine Beach had never formally acknowledged Black History Month on its own—until now.
“I was shocked,” he said, “But I was also knowing that [in] life there’s always a second chance to do what’s right and we’re at our second chance to do what’s right and I’m just completely overwhelmed with all the people who are coming in tonight to accept this proclamation on behalf of the African-American community of St. John’s County
The proclamation was read aloud at the meeting. It pointed out the profound contributions of African Americans to the history of the United States and the city.
Applause filled the room as the document was handed over to Gregory White, who is a member of West Augustine CRA (Community Redevelopment Area).
He officially accepted the proclamation on behalf of the community.
“This is current history,” he said. ”We acknowledge our past history, but to be part of current history where it goes into St. Augustine Beach archives is phenomenal. I mean, it can’t get any better than this today."