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University of Miami Race & Social Justice Law Review

Document Type

Article

Abstract

This project undertakes the task of analyzing the historical and contemporary landscape of Jacksonville, Florida, the “Bold New City of the South,”1 from a multidisciplinary vantage point. It argues that the spirit of the overturned “separate but equal” holding of Plessy v. Ferguson2 and its bold segregationist ideologies reverberate today in both subtle and overt ways. Yet, that reality has not come without the resilience and perseverance of pioneering natives who have resisted such ideals in bold ways. While segregation is deeply rooted in U.S. history and scholars have readily addressed the contemporary effects of landmark cases such as Plessy v. Ferguson nationally, I hope to contribute to this broader body of work by using Jacksonville as a case study – demonstrating how one Supreme Court decision etched into law segregationist ideals which gravely impacted one city across generations. Staying true to its former branding as the “Bold New City of the South,”3 Jacksonville, in some ways, can be seen as a microcosm of the historic South at large.

The University of Miami geographically and culturally positions itself as a national model for inclusivity. While Miami is certainly not void of its own history of structural racism, the city, with its diverse identity, can unite in solidarity with Northeast Florida. Though Jacksonville’s identity far surpasses that of mere segregation, the lasting imprint of such ideals compels me to sound the alarm for reform – in Miami and beyond. Ultimately, it is my desire to help redeem the intrinsic boldness that I wholeheartedly believe Jacksonville has always had – only this time, for the good and flourishing of all its residents. I am confident that this boldness will resonate nationally in a manner reminiscent of its former glory.

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