The prospect of opening a new Florida Black History Museum in South Florida is growing, with Opa-Locka in Miami-Dade County emerging as one of the final sites under consideration, and local leaders are eager to have the cultural institution based in their vibrant community.
Miami-Dade County is rich in historical and cultural sites related to Black history, including the Lyric Theatre’s Black Archives, the Black Precinct and Courthouse Museum, Historic Overtown, Lemon City and Historic Hampton House. These sites stand as a testament to the region’s deep African-American heritage and make it an ideal location for the new museum.
Dr. Willie Logan, president of Ten North Group, strongly believes South Florida is the perfect location for the museum.
“African-Americans and Native Americans have a very rich history that contributed to this country becoming a nation, Florida becoming a state, and several cities, including Miami, becoming cities,” Logan said. “These stories and artifacts should be known, accessible and on display.”
Earlier this month, a state task force charged with selecting a site for the museum voted to include Opa-locka as a finalist, along with St. Augustine and Eatonville. Dr. Logan believes Opa-locka stood out because of its historical significance, strategic location and the local community’s enthusiasm for cultural activities and tourism.
The proposed site for the museum was submitted by Miami-Dade County’s Ten North Group, a nonprofit with a 40-year history of affordable housing and community development.
The proposed museum would feature four floors of exhibition space, an outdoor terrace, community areas, a theater and a sculpture garden. Located on Opa Locka Boulevard, the site could easily be transformed into a vibrant cultural landmark.
A feasibility study is required before the plan can move forward. The task force is expected to complete its work by July 1, after which a final recommendation will be sent to the governor.
