The Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) Board is backing Opa-locka as the future home of the Florida Museum of Black History.
This move aims to strengthen educational opportunities for students by providing easier access to resources related to African American history.
School Board Member Dr. Steve Gallon III proposed agenda item H-11, which supports selecting Opa-locka for the museum’s location. Additionally, the proposal seeks the Superintendent’s authorization to explore potential partnerships with schools. These partnerships would focus on enhancing the teaching and learning of African American History.
According to M-DCPS, a local Florida Museum of Black History would provide students with greater access to educational resources, further supporting the teaching and learning of African American History as required by Florida Statute. This statute mandates that public schools teach African American history, including the contributions and struggles of Black people throughout history.
The Florida Legislature established a nine-member Task Force in 2023 to plan and oversee the creation of the museum. This includes selecting a location, designing exhibits, and ensuring the museum covers various aspects of Black history in Florida, encompassing pre-slavery African cultures, the period of Reconstruction, Jim Crow segregation, and the Civil Rights Movement.
Opa-locka as a Finalist
After reviewing proposals from 13 locations, the Task Force shortlisted three finalists in April 2024. One of these finalists is a South Florida partnership encompassing Miami-Dade County, Opa-locka, and the Ten North Group.
The selection of Opa-Locka is seen as a positive development for Miami-Dade County, Opa-Locka, and M-DCPS. Leaders across South Florida believe a museum in Miami-Dade County would be a significant achievement, offering educational opportunities to the entire region.
Dr. Gallon expressed his gratitude for the board’s support of this crucial initiative. He believes a museum in Opa-Locka would be an excellent resource for M-DCPS and South Florida communities, fostering education and understanding about the significant contributions of Black people.
 Board is backing Opa-locka as the future home of the Florida Museum of Black History.){kind=link}