A Conversation with John Wilson Smith

BY MAGGIE OLIVE KLEIN
KONKLIFE STAFF WRITER AND EDITOR 

This past Wednesday, September 7th, at the City Commission meeting, there was a discussion held regarding a potential Black Educators History/Memorial Museum located in the Frederick Douglas Community Center. 

John Wilson smith, the president of the proposed museum’s nonprofit group, was vocal about the need for more space, support, and attention from the city. The city officials expressed that they needed more information from him and his respective team, including descriptions of artifacts and display materials for the museum, in order to move forward. It was stated, however, that a 14-page master plan was given to officials back in 2020, and the only person to really give attention to the plan was Commissioner Sam Kaufman. 

During the meeting, Kaufman expressed his utter disappointment in the city for not having been more active regarding the black community’s needs. He said, “This has been an ongoing saga for years now. I was the sole vote for the black educator’s museum back when it was presented. There is no permanent exhibit featuring African Americans. Imagine that. It’s embarrassing.” He continued to explain how “shameful” and “wrong” it is to consider how little the city has done to help. He also said that it is important to get this right, heal within the community, and return to the mantra of “One Human Family”. He proposed to the commission that they postpone the decision until more information could be exchanged between everyone involved, and more open conversations can be held. 

Ultimately, on Wednesday, the commission voted 6 to 1 to designate space, about 220 square feet, inside the Frederick Douglass Community Center for a Black Educators Memorial/Museum. This was decided, rather than postponing the decision.

John Wilson Smith is a passionate representative of the Bahama Village Community, and the City of Key West. He is constantly fighting for his people and yearns for change within the city. He explained during a phone call that originally the City Manager had said they would meet periodically to speak about the matter, and they haven’t met since November 2nd of 2021. Smith said, “This is nothing new. We constantly are being disrespected by authority. Our people will tell you about the love we have given unconditionally to the Bahama Village Community. We have nothing but well intentions for the community. We need our history to be preserved, and a place to house it.” He continued by saying that he doesn’t need recognition, because God has given him all the recognition he needs. 

Smith also expressed his appreciation for Commissioner Sam Kaufman, and said, “Kudos from me and my people to Sam Kaufman. He is the only decent human being on the Commission, the only one trying to help us. We really want to tip a hat to him and say thank you.” Smith says that he will not stop fighting for his community and their rights. 

[livemarket market_name="KONK Life LiveMarket" limit=3 category=“” show_signup=0 show_more=0]