By Bobby R. Henry, Sr.
Sistrunk Boulevard has always represented something more than just a street in Fort Lauderdale. It’s a symbol of our heritage, our resilience, and our ambition for the future—a destination that proudly reflects the strength and culture of this community. And at its heart, there are beacons of our history fighting to hold on, like the Westside Gazette…. a trusted voice for our people, a testament to the power of Black journalism, and a reminder of the struggles and triumphs of our past. Founded by Levi and Yvonne Henry, the Westside Gazette embodies the true grit and perseverance of those that built and are building Black Broward County. Their legacy, forged through dedication to truth, community, and representation, is woven into the fabric of Sistrunk. We are deeply rooted, and we shall not be moved.
This is why the Housing Trust Group (HTG), a Miami based company’s, recent plan to “build around us,” boxing in this symbol of our community without consideration, is an affront not just to the Westside Gazette, but to everyone who calls Sistrunk home. The HTG wants to put up a sprawling 100+ unit apartment building without any real regard for the pulse of this neighborhood. Their vision is to build around us, as though the Westside Gazette and all it stands for is a mere obstacle to be worked around. This approach is shortsighted, tone-deaf, and ultimately dismissive of our community’s heritage and dreams for the future. The Gazette is not a roadblock, and Sistrunk is not just another spot for high-density apartments—it’s a destination and a promise for future generations.
We do not stand alone in our opposition. We stand proudly with the Urban Pointe Development Team and their plans for The Allen at Sistrunk—a thoughtful, community-oriented project created by and for the people of Sistrunk. This project isn’t just about buildings; it’s a tribute to the legacy of Attorney George Allen, a man who dedicated his life to defending the rights of the disenfranchised and fighting discrimination in all its ugly forms across Broward County. The Allen Project embodies his vision of justice and respect for every individual, a vision that should be woven into the very fabric of Sistrunk’s future. Unlike HTG’s proposal, Urban Pointe’s vision aligns with the original concept for Sistrunk as a destination point. They’ve listened to the voices of the community and embraced the idea of growth that respects and enhances our history rather than erasing or overshadowing it.
We call on everyone who believes in the spirit of Sistrunk and its history to join us in saying no to HTG’s plan. Now is the time to support growth that acknowledges our roots, not a development that treats us as an inconvenience to be “built around.” This community deserves better. Let’s stand with the Urban Pointe Development Team and show that Sistrunk is more than just real estate—it’s a legacy worth protecting.
Stand with us. Stand for Sistrunk. Stand for the memory and principles of Attorney George Allen and so many like him. Stand for the legacy of Levi and Yvonne Henry, whose vision made the Westside Gazette one of those beacons in our community. Let’s build a future that honors where we’ve come from and where we’re going.
Please join us in showing your support for The Allen at Sistrunk project at the upcoming CRA Board meeting on Thursday, November 7, 2024. The meeting begins at 2:30 PM and will be held at:
The Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Mary N. Porter Riverview Ballroom, 201 SW 5th Avenue Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
Your presence matters—let’s come together to support this vital project for our community!
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