Browsing: Feature

       Where Do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community?, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s fourth and final book was published in 1967 after a decade of activism that led to the enactment of federal laws on civil rights (1964), and voting rights (1965).  Despite notable and significant victories, he wrote of the unfinished journey that America still faced, and was morally-bound to pursue.

       The article you are about to read had its origins at my friend, Dr. Augusta Clark’s house, located in the very community, Carver Ranches, the primary focus of this piece. My college teammate, Thomas Ballard, and I have developed a lasting friendship with Dr. Clark or Gussie as she is affectionately known by many. When she comes home, it is a foregone conclusion that we have lunch together while simultaneously taking a nostalgic peak down memory lane as Broward educators, Gussie and Ballard at Hollywood Hills and I at South Plantation. It was following one of those gatherings that I had the privilege of meeting Audrey Warren, the creator and founder of The Legacy Ball 2024. As an occasional contributing columnist and sports editor with the Westside Gazette, Broward County’s oldest African American owned newspaper, I was extended an invitation to both attend and cover this auspicious event, honoring the legacy of the Carver Ranches pioneers while celebrating the current beneficiaries and their continuing, impactful contributions to and on this amazing community. In addition, I met Ms. Cynthia Strachan-Saunders, a multi-talented singer, author, historian and founder of the Bowles-Strachan House. Immediately I recognized the passion and commitment deeply held by these phenomenal women for their beloved Carver Ranches community.

   Two major themes, “unity” and “resilience,” have been recognized by Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Mottley, the incoming Chair of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), as necessary preconditions to propel the organization toward a future influenced by current events like the COVID-19 epidemic and climate change.

The death of former President Jimmy Carter has reignited an appreciation for a leader who championed equality, justice, and humanity over self-interest and division. Carter, who died at 100, leaves a legacy rooted in humility and service, demonstrating what true leadership can accomplish.

       As the calendar turns toward 2025, The Carrie Meek Foundation is laying the groundwork for an expansive future that honors the legacy of Congresswoman Carrie P. Meek while addressing the evolving needs of Miami-Dade County’s communities. From workforce development in aviation to community-based safety initiatives, the foundation is focused on building sustainable, impactful solutions for the region’s Black and brown neighborhoods.