Several leaders from the Jacksonville City Council are urging Visit Jacksonville, the city’s designated tourism organization, to broaden its inclusivity when choosing which sites to promote.
Councilman Jimmy Peluso convened a meeting with Councilman Dr. Rahman Johnson and Councilwoman Ju’Caroby Pittman to discuss what they refer to as deficiencies in the representation of historical and cultural landmarks within their promotional materials.
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The CEO of Visit Jacksonville, Michael Corrigan, attended the event.
He mentioned that he is always open to discussing opportunities related to tourism in the city.
“Whenever you manage to bring together several elected officials for a discussion on tourism — covering both the positive aspects as well as areas needing improvement — it’s always beneficial,” Corrigan stated.
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Peluso, representing portions of Northwest Jacksonville, expressed his desire for including locations such as Edward Waters University, which holds the distinction of being Florida’s first historically black college, along with James P. Small Park.
“We had Hank Aaron compete at that venue. It’s an experience people would aspire to have. Our aim is for them to include additional elements in their promotional materials,” Peluso stated.
Johnson similarly composed his set of suggestions for travel promotional items.
In the proposed letter, the councilmember notes:
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The
Ritz Theatre and Museum
, an esteemed organization that honors African American history in LaVilla and was formerly called the “Harlem of the South,” is left out of the “Must-Visit Locations” section even though it holds significant cultural importance nationally.
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Lift Every Voice and Sing Park
Situated at the historically significant location of the Johnson brothers’ family residence, this place does not have prominent visual or editorial presence. It marks the origin of the hymn recognized as the Black National Anthem—an anthem deeply ingrained in American history and respect.
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The absence of
Edward Waters University
Florida’s oldest private institution and the state’s first historically black college and university (HBCU), featured in the “must-visit” section of the guide, highlights a notable omission culturally. EWU stands as more than just an academically distinguished entity; it plays a crucial role in molding Jacksonville’s educational and community fabric.
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The
Clara White Mission
Founded in 1904 by Dr. Eartha M.M. White, this institution is also left out. Situated in the historically significant LaVilla district, the Mission operates as both a museum featuring one of the nation’s premier displays of African American relics and an active support center offering warm meals, temporary lodging, and professional skill-building opportunities. Given its substantial influence on culture and charity, it stands as an essential destination for those interested in exploring historical heritage.
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Johnson pointed out that leaving out the Jacksonville Public Library Special Collections along with neglecting Latino and Filipino cultural stories could pose challenges for a city aiming not just to attract visitors but also to ensure they return. This is why Johnson is advocating for more comprehensive tourism resources that better represent everyone.
“In this way, Jacksonville edges nearer to becoming more than just a city worthy of a visit; it becomes a place where every narrative can find a dwelling,” he stated in his draft.
Corrigan mentioned that the new version of the tourism pamphlet is expected to be released sometime in June or July. He stated that his group is enthusiastic about heeding their community’s input and integrating part of the council’s suggestions into future editions.
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