In the face of terror and oppression, Black Floridians exhibited resilience and resolve, finding inspiration and leadership opportunities in their churches; while in a complementary constellation of civic and Masonic orders, they pooled their resources to provide financial assistance to those in need. This program by Dr. Andrea Oliver explores how Black Floridians found strength in the faith and fraternal institutions they established in their local communities, reflecting broader national trends.

Dr. Andrea Oliver is a native of Greenville in Madison County. A graduate of Florida State University, Dr. Oliver is a decorated educator with 30 years of experience working with students from K-12 through university. As a historian of twentieth-century African American and US intellectual history, Dr. Oliver’s scholarly interests include race and education, civil rights advocacy, and how marginalized communities exercise collective and individual agency in the face of oppression.

Funding for this Florida Talks program is provided in part by Florida Humanities with funds from the National Endowment for the Humanities and in partnership with the Sulphur Springs Museum and Heritage Center. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of Florida Humanities or the National Endowment for the Humanities.