During Black History Month, Broward County’s leading cultural institution dedicated to Black history will host a critical conversation about preserving sacred spaces across the African diaspora.
The African American Research Library and Cultural Center (AARLCC) will present “Graves Matter: Cemetery Updates from Florida and Beyond” on Wednesday, February 25, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The hybrid program will take place in Gallery B at the Fort Lauderdale library, with a virtual option available via Zoom.
Now in its annual installment, Graves Matter is a community conversation focused on the preservation and protection of African diaspora cemeteries and burial grounds. Organizers say the program is designed to provide updates on the condition of historic burial sites tied to South Florida, while also expanding the discussion this year to include reports from South Carolina and Panama, Central America.
The event will explore the cultural, historical and spiritual importance of memorializing ancestors through cemetery preservation. Panelists will share collective experiences, highlight ongoing initiatives and discuss strategies for safeguarding sacred spaces connected to Black history and heritage — both locally and globally.
Featured Panelists
The evening will feature a range of experts and preservation advocates, including:
- Deborah Robinson, genealogist
- Roberto Fernandez III, educator with History Fort Lauderdale
- Gloria Battle, former vice mayor of Deerfield Beach
- Jessica Wooden, proprietor of Lincoln Cemetery
- Representatives from the CGM Cemetery Foundation in Panama
- Makenna Chandler, historic cemeteries preservationist with the Florida Department of State’s Division of Historical Resources
Additional invited guests include representatives from historic preservation groups, genealogy and archives organizations, foundations, clergy, mortuary professionals and death doulas.
Organizers say the goal is not only to provide updates, but to encourage collaboration and community engagement in ongoing preservation efforts.
The program is open to adults and will include refreshments. Registration is required for both in-person and virtual attendance, and the Zoom link will be provided upon registration.
Those interested can register online at https://broward.libnet.info/event/15257109.
This is a Hy-Lo News Staff Report.
Sign up for our weekly email newsletter and watch our weekly LIVE podcast news show every Thursday at 5:30pm. Subscribe to our YouTube page to get alerts for the show.
Do you have news to share? If so, send Hy-Lo News your story ideas by clicking HERE.
0 comments on “Honoring the Ancestors: AARLCC Hosts Conversation Focused on Protecting Black Burial Sites”