Florida experienced the highest number of lynchings per capita out of any state in the country. This violence is often less understood in context with the global perception of Florida as a state with pristine beaches and perfect weather. “I Am A Man” explores the Sunshine State as a key battleground for the Civil Rights Movement. From the murder of Harry and Harriet Moore, to the Groveland Four, to the activism and protests in St. Augustine, Tallahassee, and Miami, African Americans in Florida fought—and occasionally died—to achieve justice and equality.

Participating Panelists

  • Dr. Irvin Winsboro is a Professor of History at Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers.
  • Dr. Abel Bartley is a Professor of History at Clemson University in Clemson, South Carolina, and director of the university’s Pan-African Studies program.
  • Dr. David Jackson (Moderator) is the Associate Provost for Graduate Education and Dean of the Graduate College at Florida A&M University. He is also a Professor of History at FAMU and a member of the Board of Directors for Florida Humanities.

“I Am a Man”: The Struggle for Civil Rights in Florida is part of a conversation series, The Long History of Race Relations in Florida, convened by Florida Humanities in an effort to better understand the historical forces that influence Florida’s politics, culture, and economy.