JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Mayor’s African American Advisory Committee held an event at City Hall on Thursday morning to commemorate Black History Month.
Edward Waters University, Jacksonville’s oldest institution of higher learning and Florida’s first historical Black college (HBCU), was honored with the “Legacy Award” during Thursday’s event.
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“Thank you for selecting Edward Waters to receive this incredible honor, your recognition of our institution’s legacy affirms the work we’ve done, the strides we continue to make, and the bright future we are all building together,” Edward Waters University President Dr. Zachary Faison.
Mayor Donna Deegan spoke at the event and highlighted the contributions of several local Black prominent figures such as the brothers James Weldon Johnson and John Rosamond Johnson.
“Their contributions continue to inspire generations. Their legacy reminds us that words have power, and music can unify and uplift for generations,” Deegan said.
Deegan also talked about Jacksonville’s “long and complex history with race.”
“While we honor the progress that we have made, we must also acknowledge the systemic barriers that continue to create disparities in education, economic opportunity, health care and the justice system,” Deegan said. “No child should be denied education, opportunity and dignity, and no neighborhood should be left behind as we attract new business to grow our economy, and no voice should go unheard as we build a future where the seat of government truly represents all of our citizens.”