In celebration of the nationally observed and recognized Black History Month, the Herald-Tribune is introducing the Faces of Black Heritage series, showcasing local Black leaders and changemakers who share their views on Black heritage and history.
Sarasota plays an integral part in the overall fabric of the country’s Black history dating back to the early 1900s when the first settlers arrived here — among them was Sarasota’s first Black pioneer, Leonard Reid. The historic Reid house, now home to Sarasota’s first African-American cultural and history museum, is one of the many pieces of Black history that paved the way for today’s residents.
Here’s what culture, history, and heritage mean to these leaders and trailblazers.
OSA ATOE:
Hometown: Lorton, Virginia
Current city: Sarasota, since 2020
Occupation: Studio potter
Age: 45
On observing Black Heritage Month: “I don’t celebrate it. I think about Black history 365 days of the year. And in the work that I do and the organization I lead, we are talking about Black history all the time. I’m always referencing the work from the continent (Africa) to this country. I am always spreading the word about our history we don’t confine it to one month of the year.”