The Harmony Initiative is proud to sponsor a new series of mural projects that celebrate the spirit, history, and creativity of our community.
Big things are coming to 32805—one wall at a time.
Honoring “Aunt Jackie” Perkins
Hebni Nutrition sits at 2009 W. Central Blvd., a place with deep roots in the community. This building was once home to Montsho Bookstore, opened in 1990 by Melava “Aunt Jackie” Perkins. It was one of the only bookstores around that focused on Black authors and stories. Montsho welcomed big names like Gwendolyn Brooks, Eric Jerome Dickey, and E. Lynn Harris, and it gave local kids a place to learn and grow through books. Montsho Bookstore also hosted community events.
Honoring Florida’s First Black-owned Bank
Axiom Bank at 715 S. Goldwyn Ave. stands on historic ground. This spot was once home to Washington Shores Savings and Loan—the first established bank in Florida created for Black residents to open accounts and get home loans. It was founded in 1953 by seven respected, prominent Black professionals in the community: Paul Perkins, Dr. James R Smith, Charles Hawkins, L.C. Mosby, Dr. I.S. Manning, Dr. J. Mark Cox, and Dr. G.P. Schanck, who believed in building wealth and opportunity right here at home.
Honoring Lake Lorna Doone Park
At Lake Lorna Doone Park, we honor leaders who shaped Orlando’s history, from Dr. L.C. Jones and Ulysses Floyd who fought for access to education and equality to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his pivotal call for “Integration Now” at nearby Tinker Field in 1964. Lake Lorna Doone itself, once known as Orlando’s “Black beach,” was a gathering place for baptisms, ballgames, and music where culture thrived even in the face of segregation. These stories will be celebrated through murals at Lake Lorna Doone Park Art Garden—a living legacy to honor the past and inspire the future.
Honoring Orlando’s Trailblazers on the Big Screen
The digital murals on the Jumbotron at Camping World Stadium will honor trailblazing leaders who shaped Orlando and its community. Paul C. Perkins, Orlando’s first Black City Prosecutor and its first Black millionaire, was a lifetime member of the NAACP who advocated for civil rights, justice, and equal access. Rufus C. Brooks was a leader of the NAACP leader and principal of Eccleston Elementary. The first African American elected to the Orange County Commission, Mable Butler also helped establish the the Meals on Wheels program in District 6 and beyond. Ronald Rogers, the co-founder and president of 100 Black Men of America, has provided more than $1 million in scholarships for Jones High School graduates since 2003. These murals will become a timeless tribute to these leaders, celebrates their achievements while inspiring future generations.