Tag: Pensacola

I Was Shocked but I’m Not Surprised

Published on by SylviaLeave a comment

Yesterday, I walked through my community handing out flyers about tomorrow’s CRA
meeting. I also passed out a page explaining what TIF (Tax Increment Financing) and “blight” really mean; two terms that have quietly shaped the future of our neighborhoods for decades.

I was shocked to learn how many of my neighbors had never even heard of TIF or blight. I
was shocked to see how many homes are for sale or boarded up; homes that once held
families, laughter, and life. And I was shocked to realize that not one person I spoke with,
knew what was happening with the old Baptist Hospital site.

But deep down, I wasn’t surprised.

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The History of Segregation in Pensacola, Fla.

Published on by SylviaLeave a comment

Lets start from the beginning…

Early Days of Segregation in Pensacola, Florida

The story of segregation in Pensacola, Florida is part of a broader history of racial separation, disenfranchisement, and violence in the American South. For the Black communities in Pensacola, the Jim Crow era and its antecedents had deep and lasting consequences; on neighborhoods, businesses, schooling, political power, and memory.

This document explores the early days of segregation in Pensacola: how it began, key milestones, the local context, and some of the enduring legacies.

Antecedents: Slavery, Reconstruction and Early 20th Century

The region that became Pensacola was built in large part by enslaved African Americans under Spanish, French, British and American rule; the Black presence in the area is centuries old.

Following the Civil War and Reconstruction, white political dominance was restored across Florida, including Escambia County (Pensacola), and “separate but equal” laws and practices of segregation took root. By the early 20th century, Pensacola’s Black population was significant; almost evenly matched with whites at the century’s beginnig, but as segregation, intimidation, and racial violence increased, the Black demographic and business presence began to be pressured.

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Our History as Black People in Pensacola, Fla.

Published on by SylviaLeave a comment

I have been doing research, collecting data/statistics and the more I learn about our history, as Black people, living here in Pensacola…The City of Pensacola needs to make things right.

I’ll be posting every day or every other day about our lives here in Pensacola.

Disclaimer: The information shared by Empower Black Families is based on publicly available records, credible data sources, and community research. It is provided for educationa, informationals and advocacy purposes only.

Empower Black Families does not intend to defame, misrepresnt, or cause harm to any individual, organization or entity. While all efforts are made to ensure accuracy, readers are encouraged to verify information independently and consult original sources.

The materials presented are designed to promote, dialogue, transparency, and accountability around issues impacting Black families and communities in Pensacola and beyond.

By using, sharing, or referencing this material, you acknowledge that it represents advocacy work and research findings; not legal, financial, or medical advice.

Standing for Truth and Transparency

Published on by SylviaLeave a comment

For weeks, I’ve reached out to the Mayor’s Office, CRA/Council, and County Commissioners about what’s happening around the former Baptist Hospital site and surrounding neighborhoods.

So far, there’s been silence.

The latest email wasn’t opened by CRA/Council, though the CRA Division viewed it last night.

Meanwhile, Black neighborhoods continue to be labeled as “blight,” while homes are sold off and developers move in. Families who’ve lived here for generations are being priced out of their own community.

This isn’t about anger, it’s about accountability and awareness. Pensacola deserves transparency. Our neighborhoods deserve investment, not displacement.

If you care about what’s happening in our city, follow Empower Black Families on Facebook. Together we’ll share the facts, history, truth and make sure our voices are heard.

Learn more at EmpowerBlackFamilies.org

#EmpowerBlackFamilies #Pensacola #StopGentrification #CommunityMatters #Transparency #OurNeighborhoodsMatter

Empower Black Families

Published on by SylviaLeave a comment

Empower Black Families is a community-centered initiative focused on providing support, resources, and guidance to help individuals and families navigate everyday challenges and build long-term stability. 
 
Our goal is to create a space where community voices are heard, needs are understood, and meaningful solutions can grow. 

Why This Work Matters – Our communities have experienced generations of systemic barriers that have limited access to opportunity, resources, and economic stability. While many continue to push forward, there are still gaps in support, access, and information that impact everyday life. 
 
This work is about more than assistance; it is about understanding real experiences, identifying challenges, and helping people move toward stability, independence, and long-term growth. 

Get Involved – There are three ways to get started: 

1. Book a Community Advocacy Session 
Schedule a one-on-one session to receive guidance and support.  Click to Book Sessions 
 
2. Share Your Experience 
Complete the Community Listening Session Questionnaire to help us better understand our community’s needs. Click to Fill Out the Questionnaire 

3: Help Spread the Word About Our Organization 

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