It all began on March 17 when we were informed that Sheriff T.K. Waters, Jacksonville’s Black sheriff, was not invited to the City of Jacksonville’s official Black History Month celebration.
We reached out directly to Sheriff Waters who confirmed that he had not received an invitation. Understandably, we were shocked and disappointed that such a prominent figure was absent from an event intended to honor the contributions of Black Americans, both nationally and locally.
We were also informed that former Sheriff Nat Glover, Jacksonville’s first Black sheriff was also not invited.
We reached out to the City on that same day (March 17) seeking clarification on why both Sheriff Waters and former Sheriff Glover — two historic figures in Jacksonville’s law enforcement and African American community — were excluded.
The City initially responded with some engagement. On March 18, Alex Alston, Executive Director of the City of Jacksonville’s Office of Sports and Entertainment, informed us that the event had been overseen by the Mayor’s Office in coordination with the Mayor’s African American Advisory Board. He then connected us with Garrett Dennis and Parvez Ahmed from the Mayor’s Office for further clarification.
We promptly followed up with both Mr. Dennis and Mr. Ahmed to understand the rationale behind the omissions. However, no response was received.
On March 27, we resent the inquiry. Again, there was silence.
A final follow-up was sent on April 3, in which we expressed concern over the lack of communication. We want to send a “kudos” to Mr. Alston for responding to our 3rd request and asking Mr. Dennis or Mr. Ahmed to respond. Shortly thereafter, we received a reply from Mr. Ahmed:
“This year, the programming for Black History Month (BHM) was under the auspices of the Mayor’s African American Advisory Board. This was the first time the MAAAB took on the responsibility of programming for BHM. They had a very short turnaround between the time the Board was seated and the program was to be executed.
It was an oversight not to have invited Sheriff Waters or Glover to attend and speak. I am hoping that next year, this oversight will be corrected.”
While we appreciate the eventual response, the explanation was deeply disappointing. These were not minor figures — they are historical leaders whose presence at such an event should be a given. We responded accordingly, emphasizing that such an oversight should never occur again.
Following Mr. Ahmed’s statement, we reviewed the membership of the Mayor’s African American Advisory Board and noted their listed party affiliations:
- Lee Brown – Democrat
- Audrieanna Burgin – Democrat
- Dawn Curling – Democrat
- Barbara Darby – Democrat
- Latrina Dowdell – Independent
- Kelly Frazier – Democrat
- Kiaira Nixon – Democrat
- Ronetta Wards – Independent
- Errol White – Democrat
According to the City of Jacksonville website, the Board’s purpose is to provide a channel for communication between the African American community — which comprises approximately 30% of the city’s population — and the City government:
“The purpose of the Mayor’s African American Advisory Board is to provide a means by which the City may obtain information and guidance concerning the African American community.”
It is also worth noting that two seats on the Mayor’s African American Advisory Board are currently vacant. We respectfully suggest that the Mayor consider appointing two Black Republicans to fill these positions, helping to restore ideological balance and ensure that the Board reflects the full political and cultural diversity of Jacksonville’s Black community.
Key Points for Consideration:
- Role of an Advisory Board
Advisory boards are traditionally structured to offer non-binding, strategic advice. They are not decision-making bodies and do not hold legal, fiduciary, or operational authority. - City Staff Should Lead Event Execution
Handing over full operational responsibility for a citywide event — especially one of such significance — to a newly formed advisory board appears inappropriate. City staff should have coordinated the event, while the advisory board provided input and guidance. - Lack of Continuity and Institutional Knowledge
That two historic Black leaders — especially a sitting Sheriff and a retired trailblazer — were omitted suggests a lack of planning infrastructure. Events like these should rely on established protocols, past event playbooks, and a clear list of key community figures who are traditionally included. - Possible Political Factors
While we cannot confirm that political affiliation played a role in the omission of Sheriff Waters (a Republican), it is notable that the advisory board includes only Democrats and Independents. We sincerely hope this was not a factor, but it is important to raise the question in the interest of transparency and fairness. - Moving Forward
This incident underscores the need for greater professionalism, continuity, and institutional memory when organizing civic events. Jacksonville deserves inclusive, well-organized celebrations that truly reflect and honor the diversity and contributions of our Black community.
This issue may have originated as an oversight — but oversights of this magnitude send powerful messages. It is our hope that future events will include the voices and presence of those who have broken barriers, led with distinction, and continue to serve our city with integrity.
