DSS | Shaping an Island: Key West's Black History

416 Eaton Street,Key West FL 33040

05 January, 2023

Description

Distinguished Speaker Series | Shaping an Island: Key West's Black History with Dr. Cori ConvertitoJanuary 5, 2023 | 6pm – 7pmTropic CinemaThe Key West Art and Historical Society, in partnership with Florida Humanities, is building cultural equity by telling the stories of the Black community’s significant contributions to local culture and industry, as documented in artwork and historic documents. This talk seeks to redress a serious omission: that the substantial contributions of people of color are under-represented in our island’s historical narrative. From its beginnings in the 1800s, the maritime industry of Key West was dependent on the skills of Black Bahamians and Black Cubans as sailors, spongers, boat builders and fishermen. The contributions of these skilled workers has been marginalized, when in truth, their contributions were vital, valuable and integral. This project will be a step forward in doing what we all should have been doing for years – celebrating the true diversity of the heritage of the island city of Key West. About the Presenter:  Dr. Cori Convertito received her Ph.D. from the University of Exeter during which time she examined ‘The Health of British Seamen in the West Indies, 1770-1806’ which focused on British West Indies development and its influence on health and medicine in the Royal Navy. At present, Cori is the Curator & Historian for the Key West Art & Historical Society which operates four distinct and inspired museums, as well as an adjunct instructor of American History and Humanities at The College of the Florida Keys. This project is sponsored in part by the Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture and the State of Florida, with additional support provided by The Helmerich Trust. Additional support from Aloys & Carol Metty and The John & Marilyn Rintamaki Family Charitable Fund.