The Friends of the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center (AARLCC) will host a grand celebration marking the 23rd anniversary of the landmark institution on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. at the AARLCC in Fort Lauderdale. Tickets are available online here.
For more than two decades, AARLCC has served as a cornerstone of cultural preservation, education, and inspiration—uplifting stories of African and African-American achievement while fostering a deeper sense of community. The anniversary event will highlight that enduring legacy through music, storytelling, and recognition of those who continue to shape its mission.
Guests can look forward to a soulful evening of live jazz by the Randy Corinthian Music Group, with radio personality Tamara G, co-host of Lite 101.5 FM’s “Those 2 Girls in the Morning”, serving as the evening’s emcee.
This year’s celebration will also spotlight a distinguished lineup of 2025 honorees for their contributions to heritage, community service, and the arts:
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Jemilah Jones – Heritage and Distinguished Achievement
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Kandyss Torrence – Heritage and Distinguished Achievement
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Darius Daughtry – Community Service and Distinguished Achievement
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Sheri Brown Grosvenor – Lifetime Achievement and Community Service
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Karen Smith – Community Service and Distinguished Achievement
“This 23rd anniversary is not just a celebration of years—it’s a celebration of impact,” said Luwando Wright, President of the Broward County African-American Research Library and Cultural Center. “The African-American Research Library and Cultural Center is a living testament to what can be achieved through vision, partnership, and community love. We honor the past while inspiring future generations to dream, learn, and lead.”
Dr. Tameka Bradley Hobbs, historian and library manager, echoed that sentiment, describing AARLCC as “one of the great cultural treasures of Broward County and the nation.” She added, “For 23 years, we have worked to preserve the stories, art, and legacies of people of African descent—ensuring that future generations understand their history, take pride in their heritage, and see themselves reflected in the narrative of our collective American story.”
Founded with the help of the Friends of AARLCC, the nonprofit group continues to play a pivotal role in sustaining the library’s mission through programs like Soulful Christmas, Black History Saturday School, and youth-focused STEM and literacy initiatives. The Friends also advocate for public library resources and work closely with elected officials to ensure AARLCC remains a vital hub for education and cultural engagement.
Since opening its doors, AARLCC has grown into one of the nation’s leading institutions devoted to African and African-American heritage, housing rare collections, archives, and exhibitions that celebrate Black history, culture, and creativity.
The 23rd anniversary celebration promises to be a night of reflection, recognition, and rhythm—honoring the visionaries who built AARLCC and those who continue to carry its legacy forward.
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