Families in Florida will soon have a new place to explore Black history, thanks to a major step forward in the creation of the Florida Museum of Black History. On February 3, 2025, Senator Tom Leek (District 7) filed a bill to establish a governance framework for the museum, helping bring the long-anticipated project to life.
The announcement, made during Black History Month, highlights Florida’s commitment to honoring the contributions of African Americans and ensuring that future generations can learn about their impact on the state.
“What once was a dream is now moving toward reality,” said District 2 Commissioner Sarah Arnold, thanking lawmakers for their support.
What Families Need to Know About the Museum
The Florida Museum of Black History will be built in St. Johns County, a location chosen by the Florida Museum of Black History Task Force after careful review. The museum will offer an immersive experience for families, featuring exhibits, educational programs and stories that highlight the resilience, struggles and triumphs of Black Floridians.
The museum’s board, under the Florida Department of State’s Division of Historical Resources, will oversee the planning, construction and operation of the facility. The bill is set to take effect July 1, 2025.
A Historic Location That Tells a Story
The museum will be built on the former site of Florida Memorial University, one of the state’s oldest historically Black colleges. This site is rich in history, including the recent relocation of the Canright House, a home where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was scheduled to stay in the 1960s before segregationists vandalized it.
For families visiting the museum in the future, this setting will provide an opportunity to walk through history, learning firsthand about the fight for racial equality and the generations of Black leaders who shaped Florida.
A Place for Learning and Inspiration
Black history is American history, and having a dedicated museum will give families a place to connect with the past and inspire the future. For parents looking to teach their children about diversity, resilience and leadership, the Florida Museum of Black History will be an invaluable resource.
As Florida moves closer to making this vision a reality, families can look forward to a new destination for learning, reflection and inspiration—one that will help shape the way future generations understand the rich and complex history of Black Floridians.
