Community Advocates for Racial Equity (CARE) made a powerful statement at the St. Augustine Beach City Commission meeting on February 3, 2025, as they celebrated a historic proclamation for Black History Month. Representing CARE, a civic action group focused on serving Black and underserved communities in St. Johns County, a local resident expressed gratitude to Mayor Rumrill and the city commission for their commitment to recognizing this important month.

The speaker highlighted the significance of the proclamation, especially in light of national discussions that discourage the celebration of Black History Month. Drawing on the words of Nigerian writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, the speaker emphasized the necessity of understanding and accepting history to foster a better present and future. They also referenced civil rights leader Bryan Stevenson, underscoring that Black history is integral to American history.

This proclamation is seen as a vital step toward promoting cross-cultural understanding and empathy within the community, aligning with the vision of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for a beloved community. The meeting underscored the importance of local actions in the broader context of national conversations about race and history, marking a significant moment for St. Augustine Beach as it strives for inclusivity and recognition of its diverse heritage.