Lee County Black History Society

04/29/2026

The Lee County Black History Society would like to welcome you to the Museum After Dark Social, an evening of culture, conversation, and connection. Join us at the Williams Academy Black History Museum for an engaging book discussion with author Antwon Lindsey as he shares insights from his inspiring work I Was Meant for Me. Come experience a night of community, reflection, and celebration.

04/17/2026

The Lee County Black History Society is proud to invest in the dreams, determination, and potential of our community’s students. Through scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $4,000, LCBHS is supporting high school seniors and graduate scholars as they take the next step toward higher education and meaningful careers.

Whether you’re striving for academic excellence or continuing your journey of growth, this opportunity is designed to uplift and empower you. Let your story, your hard work, and your vision for the future shine.

Take the step. Apply. And be part of a legacy that celebrates achievement, leadership, and community impact.

APPLY HERE: https://bit.ly/4cNwBES

04/13/2026

History made. Legacy written. ✨

Gwynetta Gittens, M.Ed., the first person of color elected to the Lee County School Board in 132 years, shares her powerful journey through her memoir Unerasable/I’m Still Here.

Watch as she speaks and connects with the community during her book signing at the Williams Academy Black History Museum, a place where her impact is already cemented.

Gwynetta Gittens, M.Ed. held a historical position as the first person of color elected to the School Board in Lee County, Florida in 132 years. She wrote a ...

04/13/2026

Congratulations to the 2026 student winners of the CARSS Award 🎉 Your dedication to growth, leadership, and uplifting your community is truly inspiring 🌟 The Lee County Black History Society was honored to recognize and celebrate your achievements alongside the School District of Lee County and Ms. Constance White Davis. Keep shining and making a difference! ✨

04/13/2026

Join us as we celebrate Juneteenth 🎉, a powerful day of freedom, culture, and community 🤎. On June 20th from 4:00 to 9:00 PM at the STARS Complex in Fort Myers, come together to honor the past, serve the present, and inspire the future. Enjoy an evening filled with live performances 🎤, music, games, food trucks, and family friendly fun. This free event is a time to reflect, celebrate resilience, and connect with the community. We look forward to seeing you there.

03/24/2026

⭐️ Black History: The Dunbar Easter Parade |
A Legacy of Community and Tradition ⭐️

For decades, the Dunbar Easter Parade has stood as a vibrant celebration of faith, culture, and community pride. This cherished tradition has united families, schools, churches, and civic organizations while showcasing the resilience and rich history of the Dunbar community.

A key figure behind this enduring legacy is Evelyn Sams Canady, educator, civic leader, and passionate community advocate. Driven by her desire to highlight the excellence within her community, Ms. Canady helped shape the parade into a meaningful cultural tradition.

She was also a founder of Dunbar High School and the Dr. Ella Piper Center, playing a vital role in shaping the educational and social landscape of the community. Her commitment to service extended far beyond the classroom, inspiring generations and reinforcing values of unity, education, and empowerment.

The Dunbar Easter Parade continues to reflect this spirit — from beautifully decorated floats and lively marching bands to children dressed in their Easter best. More than an event, it is a symbol of tradition, progress, and cultural pride that brings the community together to honor its past while celebrating its future.

As we carry this tradition forward, we honor the vision and dedication of those who laid its foundation. Their legacy reminds us that history lives on through the people, stories, and celebrations that define our community.

👉 To learn more about the parade and its history, check out the Lee County Black History Society.

03/07/2026

Sharing a look back at last month’s Annual Prayer Breakfast hosted by the Lee County Black History Society. It was a meaningful time of faith, fellowship, and reflection as the community came together to honor the legacy and contributions of Black history.

03/04/2026

When Janice Cass founded the Lee County Black History Society, her vision was to preserve and share the stories and contributions of the Black community in Southwest Florida. Today, that vision continues to guide the Society’s mission and inspire future generations. We invite you to become a member and be part of carrying that legacy forward. https://bit.ly/4rMyTZQ

03/04/2026

Last month, the Lee County Black History Society gathered the community for its Annual Prayer Breakfast. As we take time to reflect on the moments that brought us together, we’re reminded that while February highlights Black history, every month is Black History Month. The event honored the legacy of Carter G. Woodson’s vision and celebrated the stories, faith, and contributions that continue to shape our community today.

WGCU’s Bryant Monteilh captured moments from this meaningful event. ✨

In 1926, “The Father of Black History” Carter G. Woodson, founded the program that would evolve into Black History Month. To commemorate the centennial cele...

03/04/2026

Join us for an inspiring evening with award-winning journalist and author Wayne Dawkins as he speaks to the Dunbar community. The event will take place on March 10, 2026, at 6:00 PM at Omega House, 2746 Blake Street, Fort Myers, FL.

Come be part of an engaging night of insight, storytelling, and community connection. ✨

02/12/2026

🎬✨ TOMORROW is the day! Join us for a FREE Movie in the Park featuring Remember the Titans as we celebrate Black History Month. Grab your lawn chairs, blankets, and come enjoy a night under the stars! 🍿🌙