We are pleased to share with you an example of AR memorialization helping the community overcome challenges many cemeteries face with land access for memorialization efforts. This AR experience will be supported by community learning trunks, a comprehensive web portal, an immersive VR memorialization experience, and an upcoming museum exhibition.

The 2022 Florida legislature passed HB 4815 African American Cemetery Education Tampa Bay. This innovative project aims to preserve African American cemetery space and history through k-12 and community education programming. Centered on three African American cemeteries in the Tampa Bay area including Rose Cemetery, Whispering Souls Cemetery, and Zion Cemetery, this project engages students and community members in oral histories, photovoice, AR and VR learning experiences, classroom curricular materials, and museum exhibitions. To learn more and to follow the progress of the program please visit www.specialangelscemeterypreservation.org. https://floridapolitics.com/archives/507940-legislature-approves-750k-for-tampa-bay-education-program-on-erased-black-cemeteries/

HB 447- Required Instruction in History of African Americans has favorably passed two committees with unanimous bipartisan support and support from the Florida Parent Teacher Association. You can follow the bills progress here: https://myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Bills/billsdetail.aspx?BillId=73878&SessionId=93 The African American Cemetery Alliance of Tampa Bay supports the passage of HB 447.