OCOEE, Fla. — This week marks 102 years since a simple act of voting led to the Ocoee Massacre.
In 1920, July Perry was shot and later lynched in Ocoee after attempting to cast a ballot. What followed was a massacre leaving dozens more dead while others fled the area.
This weekend kicks off a full list of activities put on by the Ocoee Board for Human Relation Diversity. The events are intended to unite, remember and educate people on the lives lost in the Ocoee Massacre.
What You Need To Know
- The Ocoee Massacre happened on Election Day, November 2, 1920
- The Ocoee Board for Human Relation Diversity is hosting a weekend full of events to honor victims
- Attendees say honoring the event reminds ourselves of the importance of the right to vote
- RELATED: Ripples of Pain: 100 Years Later, Ocoee Massacre Still a Stigma for Descendants, City
Bikers memorialize massacre
Bikers from across Central Florida organized for a ride from Oakland to Ocoee in honor of Julius “July” Perry.
The Buffalo Soldiers of Florida's Orlando chapter were one of the many groups to attend Saturday's memorial ride. The organization aims to honor Black Americans who lost their lives fighting for freedom in our country.
Leaders say one of those very important freedoms is the right to vote.
“That’s part of history and that’s something that we should not forget. And that every American should have the right to vote," said Manny "DJ Man" McDuffie, President of the Orlando chapter of the Buffalo Soldiers. "That changes your community, that changes your legislation, changes everything. Voting is a very important right to have and it shouldn’t be taken lightly."
Unity Festival
A 'Unity Festival' was held Saturday afternoon at Bill Breeze Park to honor July Perry and the Black men and women the KKK killed for exercising their right to vote.
"They went through all this stuff, and it's really sad, but I want to make them proud of me," said Sumer Strawbree, who had a booth at this year's festival.
Strawbree is on a mission to make a difference in this world.
The 13-year-old student is a motivational speaker, author, and illustrator who created her coloring book before being old enough to drive.
"One year ago, I would be so scared to talk with people, but now it's just so natural," she explained.
Strawbree says her goal is to help encourage other young girls who look like her.
That means providing them with positive affirmations to help instill confidence and reminders to love the skin they're in.
"Inspiring people is what's most important."
With a booth set up at this year's Unity Festival, she was able to reach even more people and share her story of growth.
More than that, Saturday was a chance to remember those discriminated against because of the color of their skin.
"I want to make them glad that I'm doing this so we can help each other. Make each other grow as a whole."
Throughout the festival, voter turnout was encouraged for all those in attendance.
Although Strawbree has a few years until she can cast a ballot in an election, she could still do her part and give back to the community.
"This is a time to stop the low self-esteem and bring up the confidence," said Strawbree.
The City of Ocoee is also throwing a private Descendants Dinner for descendants of massacre victims. In addition, there will be a candlelight walk Sunday at the Lakeshore Community Center at 6 p.m. and all are invited to attend.