As the Fundraising Manager for the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) Truth and Justice Project of Orange County, FL, I played a pivotal role in orchestrating fundraising efforts for the Truth and Justice Project’s upcoming June 21st Historical Marker Unveiling Ceremony, honoring the legacy of July Perry, a prominent African American businessman and advocate for voting rights. My responsibilities involved strategically leading the fundraising initiative to cover essential budget expenses, including hosting the descendants of July Perry and securing resources for event-related entertainment.
In my role, I focused on connecting with potential donors, crafting impactful messaging for the campaign, and managing a GoFundMe campaign aimed at raising funds for the unveiling ceremony. The funds raised will directly support key elements of the ceremony, ensuring the participation of Perry’s family, as well as facilitating community engagement through entertainment at the event.
I contributed to the broader mission of the Truth and Justice Project by overseeing the coordination of key event details, ensuring that each aspect of the ceremony aligned with the project’s goals of healing and public acknowledgment. I also worked closely with stakeholders such as the Equal Justice Initiative, the Bridge the Gap Coalition, Orange County Government, and various local organizations to ensure seamless collaboration throughout the planning process.
The unveiling ceremony, part of EJI’s Community Remembrance Project, will publicly acknowledge the lynching of July Perry in 1920, marking a critical moment in the history of racial violence in Florida. This initiative is a crucial step in addressing historical injustices and fostering a more inclusive and equitable future for the community. My efforts in fundraising and project management were integral in ensuring the success of this meaningful event, which serves as a vital part of the collective effort to bring awareness to this chapter in American history.
Equal Justice Initiative (EJI)