Celebrating South Dade’s History and Black Business Community
In the heart of South Dade, on the last breathtaking day of September, the inaugural Run It Back 5K Run/Walk brought together a community eager to celebrate its vibrant history and empower its thriving Black business community. With the Miami-Dade County Mayor, Daniella Levine Cava, leading the way as the Race Grand Marshal, the event promised a day filled with purpose and unity.
Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, in her opening remarks, captured the essence of the event perfectly when she said, “They are celebrating South Dade and our Black business community and lifting up our local economy and also our history. Because this organization, The Historic Society, focuses on the history, the legacy of our Black leaders here in South Dade.” Her words resonated with all in attendance, emphasizing the significance of acknowledging our past while building a brighter future.
The Historic Society, which was established in 2013 with a mission to collect, preserve, and disseminate archival information related to Black South Floridians, took a momentous step forward in its journey. The Executive Director of The Historic Society spoke passionately, saying, “Great Morning! It is with the utmost of gratitude that I am here today. To think 10 years ago, we would be here is a dream.” She emphasized the importance of archival preservation and storytelling as an urgent need. The Historic Society’s dedication to preserving South Dade’s history has never been more crucial, and their anniversary celebration marked a milestone in their journey.
What made this event even more special was the collaboration between The Historic Society and the South Dade Branch of the Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce. As the Executive Director of The Historic Society noted, “We joined forces with the South Dade Branch of the Miami-Dade Chamber to amplify both of our missions and to raise awareness of the importance of our economic engine, the small Black business.” This partnership symbolized the community’s commitment to supporting Black entrepreneurs and driving economic growth.
The Run It Back 5K Run/Walk itself was an exhilarating experience, with participants dashing past the awe-inspiring animals of Zoo Miami. But it wasn’t just about the run; it was about running with a purpose. All attendees, whether part of a team or running individually, came together to make a positive impact on their community.
The event offered more than just a race. Post-race celebrations included a lively send-off and an infectious Miami-centric music set by DJ Nasty. Vibrant vendor booths added to the atmosphere, and a group yoga session provided a moment of tranquility to conclude the morning.
In summary, the Run It Back 5K Run/Walk was a celebration of South Dade’s history, a showcase of unity in the community, and a testament to the importance of supporting Black businesses. With the Mayor, The Historic Society, and the Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce all coming together, this event served as a shining example of what can be achieved when a community rallies behind a shared purpose. It was a day of celebration, unity, and a commitment to a brighter future for South Dade.
