With the progression of Black History Month, there are many notable people who deserve to be recognized for playing a vital role in shaping the local community. One prominent activist for equal education among many other issues in Florida was Harry T. Moore.

Being raised in Jacksonville, Florida, Moore was introduced into an environment that encouraged academic achievement and celebrated African-American tradition. This, coupled with him being raised by most of his childhood by his three well-educated aunts, caused Moore to develop a passion for learning and intellect.

Because of his interest and involvement in the education system, Moore was especially active in creating equality within schools. By starting his career as a teacher, he witnessed first-hand the change that needed to be made. Moore made a pivotal impact by founding the first branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People in Brevard county. With this organization, along with others, such as the all-black Florida State Teacher’s Organization, he was able to file the first lawsuit to equalize white and black teacher salaries.

As he progressed with cases involving schools, Moore wanted to expand his help to aiding people involved with brutality. From 1943 until his death, he was able to investigate every lynching incident in Florida.

Besides fighting for equal rights in the school system and brutality cases, he also advocated for black voting rights. After creating the Progressive Voters’ League, over the next six years, more than 116,000 black voters were able to register for the Florida Democratic Party.

With his persistence to creating change in his local community and eventually his entire home state, Moore was able to make a significant impact for future generations.