Caribbean National Weekly

'Crossing The Waters' film highlights impact of Bahamian pioneers in South Florida

By Sheri-kae McLeod··1 min read
'Crossing The Waters' film highlights impact of Bahamian pioneers in South Florida
Key Points(5)
  • Bahamians share a rich and intricately woven history with various communities across America, a narrative often overlooked but brought to light by <a href="https://www.drdallas.net/">Dr.
  • Michele Dallas</a> through her compelling film, "CROSSING THE WATERS: The Impact of Bahamian Pioneers in South Florida." On February 3, at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center on Sistrunk Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale, Dr.
  • Dallas unveiled her film, aimed at illuminating the profound influence of Bahamian pioneers in shaping South Florida's landscape.
  • [caption id="attachment_110298" align="alignright" width="267"]<img class="wp-image-110298 size-full" src="https://www.caribbeannationalweekly.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Picture2.jpg" alt="CROSSING THE WATERS" width="267" height="216" /> Left to right: Bahamas Consul General Miami Curt G.
  • Tameka Bradley Hobbs, The Right Honorable, Former Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, Perry G.

Bahamians share a rich and intricately woven history with various communities across America, a narrative often overlooked but brought to light by Dr. Michele Dallas through her compelling film, "CROSSING THE WATERS: The Impact of Bahamian Pioneers in South Florida."

On February 3, at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center on Sistrunk Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale, Dr. Dallas unveiled her film, aimed at illuminating the profound influence of Bahamian pioneers in shaping South Florida's landscape.

CROSSING THE WATERS
Left to right: Bahamas Consul General Miami Curt G. Hollingsworth, Dr. Tameka Bradley Hobbs, The Right Honorable, Former Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, Perry G. Christie, Dr. Michele Dallas, and Anthony Avery

Through captivating storytelling, the film not only enlightens but also preserves crucial chapters of history, highlighting the significant contributions of Bahamian settlers. In Coconut Grove, their early presence played pivotal roles in fostering vibrant communities, while in Fort Lauderdale, they left an indelible mark through expertise in trading, farming, fishing, masonry, and wrecking along the New River.

The proximity of Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and neighboring areas to the Bahamas has fostered enduring ties, with many U.S.-affiliated businesses in the Bahamas today centered around tourism, underscoring the lasting connections across the waters.

Written and directed by Dr. Michele Dallas, with Lindsey Michele Powell as co-writer, the film stands as a testament to the perseverance and impact of Bahamian pioneers. Notably, Dr. Dallas herself has made history as the first African American woman to practice dentistry in Broward County, and her contributions extend to state-level recognition, having been appointed by former Governor Jeb Bush to the State of Florida Board of Dentistry.

Related Stories

Diaspora urged to seek professional guidance in Jamaican real estate market

Diaspora urged to seek professional guidance in Jamaican real estate market