THE BLACK ARCHIVES HISTORY & RESEARCH FOUNDATION OF SOUTH FLORIDA, INC. 2023-2024 BOARD OF DIRECTORS BOARD OFFICERS
DR. DOROTHY JENKINS FIELDS FOUNDER
PATRICIA BRAYNON CHAIRPERSON
STEVEN HENRIQUEZ, CPA TREASURER
BOARD MEMBERS
ROBERT BEATTY, ESQ
DOLORES FERNANDEZ ALONSO
DON L. HORN
ANITA L. MCGRUDER
RICHARD C. MILSTEIN, ESQ
ANDREA PELT-THORTON
N. PATRICK RANGE
MARCIA SAMUELS
RICKELLE WILLIAMS
TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome Messages
4
About the Community Redevelopment Agency
9
About the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau
9
About the Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater
10
Honoring/Salute to Dr. Dorothy Jenkins Fields
11
Soiree Event Program
13
Salute To Kamila E. Pritchett
14
Ads
15
Salute to Our Soiree Sponsors
19
Community Partners
20
Community Supporters
21
Black Archives Endowment Fund Donors
22
The Black Archives History & Research Foundation of South Florida, Inc. Exceptional Staff
23
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava congratulates Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater on its 110th Anniversary! Thank you for bringing the residents of Miami-Dade lasting art and rich Black history education for over a century.
@MayorDaniella
@MayorDaniella
@MayorDLC
COMMISSIONER KEON HARDEMON
SECURED $90 MILLION TO COMBAT GUN VIOLENCE
CONGRATULATIONS on your 110th anniversary celebration. May you continue to serve as a source of pride and culture within our Overtown community.
MESSAGE FROM MAYOR FRANCIS X. SUAREZ
On behalf of the City of Miami and its constituents, I would like to extend greetings and congratulations to the Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater Cultural Arts Complex on its 110th anniversary. Since 1977, Dr. Dorothy Jenkins Fields has been collecting valuable materials that reflect the African American experience in Miami-Dade County. Additionally, I congratulate her for the establishment of Miami’s Black Archives and the restoration of the landmark Lyric Theater. I deeply value the rich history and legacy that has been established in the City of Miami through the continued efforts of the Black Archives and the Lyric Theater. May you continue to thrive for many more years telling the story of your rich heritage. Mayor Francis X. Suarez City of Miami
ABOUT THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY (CRA) The Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater would not be where it is today without the support of the Community Redevelopment Agency. The Community Redevelopment Agency has a history of undertaking activities and projects designed to eradicate conditions of slum and blight. The main objective of the CRA is to spearhead new development and redevelopment efforts that accomplish beneficial revitalization within its boundaries. The CRA’s mission is to enhance the quality of life of residents within the Redevelopment Area by expanding the tax base, creating job opportunities, promoting dynamic economic growth and fostering safe neighborhoods. Consistent with this mission, the CRA has implemented a variety of new development and redevelopment undertakings, mainly to increase accessibility to quality affordable housing for residents of low and moderate income. The CRA is funded through a unique financing tool called Tax Increment Revenues, which earmarks a specific portion of property tax dollars collected by its taxing authorities (City of Miami, Miami Dade County and the Children’s Trust) for reinvestment in the Redevelopment Area. The agency is governed by a CRA Board, whose members are City of Miami Commissioners. The board’s policies on redevelopment activities are implemented by the executive director.
ABOUT THE GREATER MIAMI CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU The Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater salutes the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau for aiding in the promotion of the Lyric Theater as a key destination during a visit to Miami. The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau is the official, accredited destination sales and marketing organization for Greater Miami and Miami Beach. It is a global leisure and business destination that delivers culturally rich, diverse, and innovative experiences inspiring boundless passion in visitors and residents alike. The mission of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau is to generate travel demand to Greater Miami and Miami Beach, to maximize economic impact to our community, ensure industry resiliency, and elevate the resident quality of life. Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater | The Crown of Overtown 110th Anniversary Kick-Off Celebration Soiree | 9
ABOUT THE BLACK ARCHIVES HISTORIC LYRIC THEATER The Historic Lyric Theater, considered the crown of Overtown for over a century, is an impressive theater which was built in 1913. It has since served as a symbol of Black economic influence, as well as a social gathering place-free of discrimination- and a source of pride and culture within Overtown. The Lyric Theater was acquired by the Black Archives History and Research Foundation of South Florida, Inc. in 1988. By 1989, the Theater, the lone surviving building in “Little Broadway,” was listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Renamed the Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater Cultural Arts Complex (BAHLT), it is the oldest legitimate theater in Miami. Adjacent to the central downtown business district of Miami, it is an anchor site of the Historic Overtown Folklife Village. This year, the Historic Lyric Theater is celebrating its 110th year anniversary, marking a year-long celebration which kicks off this month. With unique programming and plans for future expansion, the Historic Lyric Theater will continue to stand out as a premiere venue. Future expansion of BAHLT includes construction of expanded archival wing including a genealogy lab, research facilities, gallery and exhibition space, additional administrative office space, convention and meeting space, catering facilities, and more. Thank you for joining us for the celebration of the Historic Lyric Theater’s 110th year anniversary. With your support, it will forever be the “Crown of Overtown.”
Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater | The Crown of Overtown 110th Anniversary Kick-Off Celebration Soiree | 10
HONORING/SALUTE TO DR. DOROTHY JENKINS FIELDS Dr. Dorothy Jenkins Fields is the woman behind the “Crown of Overtown.” It all started when she founded the Black Archives History and Research Foundation of South Florida, Inc. in 1977. This non-profit organization was tasked to collect and preserve the rapidly vanishing material that reflects the African American experience in Miami-Dade County. Over the years, the collection has grown, and the Black Archives is now a national resource for this history of the 19th and 20th centuries, providing a rich repository of materials that are used by scholars, students, teachers, the media and the community alike. Committed to serving as a lyric voice for the black history of South Florida, Dr. Jenkins Fields devoted her life to preserving the heritage of the African-American community and raising awareness of African-American history to a national level. She is not only responsible for the establishment of Miami’s Black Archives, but the designation and restoration of the landmark Lyric Theater, that we now know today. Dr. Fields’ back story is as impressive as her creation of the Lyric Theater. Her maternal family moved to Overtown from the Bahamas in 1903 and immediately became an integral part of the fabric of South Florida’s history. Fields’ grandfather, in fact, was one of the gardeners who planted the original gardens at the Deering Estate, Villa Vizcaya, in 1914. The Fields lineage came full circle in 1999 when Fields was appointed to the Vizcaya Trust by Miami-Dade County Mayor Alex Penelas. A teacher and educator for Miami-Dade County Public Schools for more than 30 years, Fields began her career in 1964 after graduating from Spelman College. Then, in 1974, in preparation for the nation’s bicentennial, she began a search for curriculum materials on the black experience in South Florida. When she was unable to find any information about South Florida’s black history in any school or public library, she embarked on a journey that would become her lifelong professional mission. The first step in her journey was to establish The Black Archives, a nonprofit manuscript and photographic repository for the legacies of Miami’s black community. She was assisted in her effort by University of Miami history professor Gregory Bush, who introduced her to the field of public history. Later she earned her certification in archives administration at Emory University, a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction at the University of Northern Colorado, and a Ph.D. in 20th-century African-American history, historic preservation, and public history from The Union Institute in Cincinnati, Ohio. Dr. Fields, we honor and salute you. We thank you for all that you have done and continue to do. The “Crown of Overtown” would not exist today without you. Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater | The Crown of Overtown 110th Anniversary Kick-Off Celebration Soiree | 11
HONOREES DR. DOROTHY JENKINS FIELDS: BLACK ARCHIVES ETERNAL ROAR AWARD Dr. Dorothy Jenkins Fields has devoted her life to preserving the heritage of the African American community and raising awareness of African American history at a national level. She is responsible for the establishment of Miami’s Black Archivtes, the designation and restoration of the landmark Lyric Theater and other historic sites. FORMER COMMISSIONER AUDREY EDMONSON: BLACK ARCHIVES LION AWARD FOR COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP AND ADVOCACY Audrey M. Edmonson has represented District 3 since December 2005. Since her arrival on the Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners, Chairwoman Edmonson has successfully championed a wide range of issues to improve residents’ quality of life. COMMISSIONER KEON HARDEMON: BLACK ARCHIVES LION AWARD FOR COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP AND ADVOCACY The Honorable Keon Hardemon is the Miami-Dade County representative for Miami Shores in District 3. He chaired the Southeast Overtown Park West Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) during his tenure as a Miami City Commissioner. BEA HINES: BLACK ARCHIVES LION AWARD FOR COMMUNITY ADVOCACY THROUGH JOURNALISM Bea Hines is a trailblazer and distinguished journalist. She shattered barriers as the first African American woman to work as a reporter for The Miami Herald in 1970. COMMISSIONER CHRISTINE KING: BLACK ARCHIVES LION AWARD FOR COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP AND ADVOCACY The honorable Christine King is a dedicated advocate with many years of passionate service to the community. She serves as the Chairwoman of the City of Miami Commission, as well as District 5. JAMES MCQUEEN: BLACK ARCHIVES LION AWARD FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC ADVOCACY James D. McQueen is a lifelong public servant and a devoted member of the historic Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church. He humbly serves as the Executive Director of the Southeast Overtown/ Park West Community Redevelopment Agency, an opportunity he finds both challenging and exciting. JOMARIE PAYTON: BLACK ARCHIVES LION AWARD FOR COMMUNITY ADVOCACY THROUGH THE ARTS JoMarie Payton is an actress, a human rights activist and a four-time NAACP Image Award nominee. She got her big break as Harriet Winslow in Perfect Strangers (1986) and charmed audiences as the voice of Suga Mama in The Proud Family Movie. Her extensive TV credits highlight her versatile talent. For a more comprehensive biography of the honorees, please visit BAHLT.org. Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater | The Crown of Overtown 110th Anniversary Kick-Off Celebration Soiree | 12
THE BLACK ARCHIVES HISTORIC LYRIC THEATER 110TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION SOIREE
PROGRAM
Melton Mustafa Orchestra
Live Music
G. Eric Knowles
Master of Ceremony
President, Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce
Video - Up Close & Personal with Kamila E. Pritchett Kamila E. Pritchett
Welcome
Executive Director, The Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater
Special Remarks Raheem DeVaughn
Entertainment
Video - Up Close & Personal with Dr. Dorothy Jenkins Fields Honorees Recognition Entertainment
Keke Wyatt
SALUTE TO KAMILA E. PRITCHETT Kamila Pritchett’s transformative journey from a 10-year career in journalism to the realm of non-profit work in 2007 marked the genesis of her profound dedication to community service. Her unwavering passion for catalyzing positive change led her to a pivotal role as a Community Liaison at the Healthy Start Coalition of Miami-Dade, where she diligently forged connections between new mothers and vital community resources. Recognized for her remarkable commitment and potential, Kamila underwent specialized training at Harvard University’s prestigious Brazelton Touchpoints Center, becoming a certified trainer in the renowned Touchpoints early child development discipline. Equipped with this expertise, she played an instrumental role in promoting healthy child development and nurturing resilient parent-child relationships within the community. In February 2013, Kamila embarked on a new and profoundly impactful chapter in her career by joining The Black Archives History & Research Foundation of South Florida as the Development Coordinator. Over the years, she ascended through the organization’s ranks and currently holds the esteemed position of Executive Director. In this influential capacity, Kamila assumes a leadership role in overseeing the day-to-day operations of The Black Archives. She curates transformative programming, cultivates strategic community partnerships, and spearheads critical fundraising initiatives that have propelled the organization’s exponential growth. Through Kamila’s relentless dedication, these spaces have been revitalized the organization has forged new and impactful partnerships, further positioning the institution as an indispensable cultural epicenter, paying homage to the rich heritage and history of South Florida’s Black community. Her exceptional efforts earned her a prestigious appointment to the Board of Directors for the Association of African American Museums (AAAM) in 2023. Kamila’s academic accomplishments include an A.A. in Journalism/Mass Communication from Miami-Dade College and a B.A. in English, complemented by an undergraduate certificate in African New World Studies from Florida International University. These academic pursuits have fortified her profound understanding of the significance of African diasporic studies, reinforcing her unwavering commitment to preserving and propagating the rich tapestry of Black culture. Beyond her professional achievements, Kamila remains deeply rooted in community service within the Miami area. As the current president of the Greater Miami Chapter of The Links, Incorporated and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, she consistently leaves an indelible mark on the lives of those she serves. Kamila Pritchett’s exceptional work at The Black Archives stands as a testament to her resolute commitment to celebrate and safeguard the historical legacy of South Florida’s African American community. Through her visionary leadership and unwavering dedication, she has magnified the organization’s impact and forged enduring relationships that continue to enrich the lives of countless individuals. For more information about The Black Archives History & Research Foundation of South Florida, please visit www. BAHLT.org.
Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater | The Crown of Overtown 110th Anniversary Kick-Off Celebration Soiree | 14
Historic Lyric Theater 110th Anniversary I am thrilled to extend my warmest congratulations on the Lyric Theater's 110th anniversary. This remarkable milestone is a testament to the enduring legacy of this cultural treasure and its profound impact on our community. Built in 1913, the Lyric Theater has been a shining beacon of history, culture, and art in Miami for over a century. From its inception to its current role as a vibrant hub of cultural celebrations, its journey is inspiring. Under the stewardship of the Black Archives History and Research Foundation of South Florida, Inc., since 1988, the Lyric Theater has continued flourishing as a symbol of Miami's rich and diverse cultural heritage. The theater's commitment to showcasing the beauty and uniqueness of our city is a source of pride for all of us. The Lyric Theater has not only stood the test of time but has also evolved to reflect the ever-changing cultural tapestry of our beloved Overtown. It remains a pillar of our community, a symbol of unity, and the crown jewel of our neighborhood. As the SEOPW CRA Executive Director, I am honored to witness the Lyric Theater’s positive impact on our community. It brings people together, fostering a sense of togetherness and celebrating the rich cultural tapestry that defines Miami. May this anniversary be a reflection of your incredible journey and a promise of an even brighter future for the Historic Lyric Theater. Here's to another century of inspiration, cultural enrichment, and community building. Warmest congratulations to all involved in making the Lyric Theater the extraordinary institution that it is today. Thank you for your dedication to preserving our heritage and for continuing to be a vibrant part of Miami's cultural landscape. With heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for many more years of success, Executive Director, James D. McQueen & the Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency team.
Each year, Miami's historic neighborhood of Overtown comes alive with the African diaspora's stories, colors, and rhythms during its annual art week, Soul Basel. This vibrant cultural extravaganza pays homage to the rich tapestry of Black art, celebrating the deep-rooted influences shaping the neighborhood's history and culture. With diverse art exhibitions, engaging discussions, live music, and historic sites, Soul Basel offers a dynamic platform for emerging and established artists to showcase their work while inviting visitors to explore the neighborhood's unique heritage. In addition to its artistic offerings, the event serves as a bridge between the local community and visitors, promoting appreciation for the significance of Overtown's role in preserving and celebrating the artistic contributions of the African diaspora.
Photography by AJ Shorter Photography
Follow us along the journey as we get ready to celebrate the essence of Soul Basel. Be sure to check our Instagram feed and story! We’ll be posting event details and resources!
Scan here to visit our Instagram!
HOSTED BY THE BLACK ARCHIVES HISTORY AND RESEARCH FOUNDATION OF SOUTH FLORIDA, INC.
JANUARY 11-14
DOWNTOWN MIAMI OVERTOWN Documentary Filming + Day Parties Comedy + Talk Backs + Music + Culture FOLLOW @HIPROCKSTAR FOR HBCUCON PERFORMER + TICKET ANNOUNCEMENTS TAP THE BELL ICON IN THE TOP RIGHT CORNER, AND TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS FOR POSTS, STORIES, REELS OR VIDEOS.
For Brand Sponsorship Opportunities, contact Rochelle at RS@Hiprockstar.com
SALUTE TO OUR SOIREE SPONSORS HERITAGE CONTRIBUTOR
CULTURAL CONTRIBUTOR
AMBASSADOR
JOANNE ROSEN
JEWEL BOOKER T. WASHINGTON ORIGINAL OVERTOWNERS SHINE PRODUCTIONS (MONTEZ MONROE) DELORES FLOWERS Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater | The Crown of Overtown 110th Anniversary Kick-Off Celebration Soiree | 19
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater | The Crown of Overtown 110th Anniversary Kick-Off Celebration Soiree | 20
COMMUNITY SUPPORTERS Thank you to our community businesses and supporters who have helped to make this event the success it is.
DON BAILEY CARPETS This event has been powered by
Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater | The Crown of Overtown 110th Anniversary Kick-Off Celebration Soiree | 21
THANK YOU BLACK ARCHIVES ENDOWMENT FUND DONORS! $10,000
THE HONORABLE AUDREY M. EDMONSON MARTHA C. DAY
$5,000
LATONYA AND TIMOTHY BARBER PATRICIA JENNINGS BRAYNON BRIGHTLINE THE HONORABLE BARBARA J. JORDAN RICHARD LEVINE THE CARRIE P. MEEK FOUNDATION JAMES MCQUEEN THE HONORABLE DENNIS MOSS FLORENE NICHOLS ANDREA PELT-THORNTON CARMETTA C. RUSSELL NICOLE AND MICHAEL SIMKINS SIMKINS FAMILY FOUNDATION INVESTOR SOLUTIONS Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater | The Crown of Overtown 110th Anniversary Kick-Off Celebration Soiree | 22
THE BLACK ARCHIVES HISTORY & RESEARCH FOUNDATION OF SOUTH FLORIDA, INC. EXCEPTIONAL STAFF KAMILA E. PRITCHETT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
ARMEID THOMPSON EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT JAVALIN LOVETT FINANCE DIRECTOR TAYLOR PATTON DEVELOPMENT OFFICER BRIANNA SENTER ARCHIVES MANAGER EDRODSYE FILS-AIME THEATER OPERATIONS MANAGER ELAYSHA BASIL ARCHIVIST JOEL DAVIS FACILITIES MANAGER ISAAC DECOSTE SECURITY MANAGER CHRISTOPHER MITCHELL RECEPTIONIST ISAAC DECOSTE JR. PUBLIC SAFETY STAFF YESSENIA MARTINEZ HOUSEKEEPING ZEBEDEE ADDERLEY MAINTENANCE BRENDA MURILLO GIFT SHOP/OFFICE ASSISTANT
Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater | The Crown of Overtown 110th Anniversary Kick-Off Celebration Soiree | 23
EMBRACE, ENGAGE & REDISCOVER MIAMI’S MULTICULTURAL JEWELS
MiamiandMiamiBeach.com
@VisitMiami
MulticulturalMiami.com ArtofBlackMiami.com © Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau — The Official Destination Sales & Marketing Organization for Greater Miami & Miami Beach. CS-04470