A Vision for Legacy, Activism, and Empowerment: Latoya Byrd on the Arthur Lee McDuffie Gala

By Knowledge Born Allah | VOD Newz | Thursday, June 19, 2025

Ms. Latoya Byrd MDEAT Visionary Legacy Builder

The inaugural Arthur Lee McDuffie Activist Awards Gala is set to be more than just an event; it’s a transformative experience. Designed to honor the resilience and activism of Arthur Lee McDuffie, the gala aims to empower the community to continue the fight for justice. Latoya Byrd, Business Expansion Specialist at the Miami-Dade Economic Advocacy Trust (MDEAT), shared her vision for the gala, the enduring legacy of McDuffie, and the impact this gathering hopes to inspire.

Honoring McDuffie’s Legacy Through Immersion

Latoya Byrd envisions the gala as an immersive journey into Arthur Lee McDuffie’s life and legacy. “This isn’t just a celebration; it’s a space to reflect on the injustice he endured while celebrating the immense legacy born from that pain,” Byrd explained. The event will feature portraits of McDuffie, his family, and the riots that followed his tragic death, creating a powerful connection to shared history.

But the gala isn’t solely about remembrance. It’s also a celebration of progress. With live music featuring 70s and 80s classics loved by McDuffie and his wife, like Teddy Pendergrass, the evening will evoke a sense of home, family, and Black love. “Love and unity strengthen us, but they are also worth fighting for,” Byrd emphasized.

Connecting McDuffie’s Legacy to MDEAT’s Mission

The work of MDEAT is deeply rooted in the aftermath of McDuffie’s death. Following his tragic killing and the acquittal of the six officers involved, the community demanded systemic change. This led to the creation of the Miami Metro Action Plan, now known as MDEAT.

“Our mission is centered on economic equality, justice, and protecting the Black family,” Byrd shared. Through initiatives like homeownership assistance, youth leadership development, and economic resources for Black businesses, MDEAT continues the legacy of activism sparked by McDuffie’s story. “His story is a reminder of why this work is critical,” Byrd added.

Inspiring Action and Empowerment

Byrd hopes the gala will inspire attendees to honor and expand on McDuffie’s legacy. “I want people to feel empowered to see injustices and take action,” she said. Whether through mentorship, activism, or community support, Byrd believes everyone has a role to play in continuing the fight for justice.

At the heart of McDuffie’s legacy is Black love, a theme Byrd hopes attendees will carry forward. “By holding on to love, family, and community, we thrive together,” she said. The gala will also highlight the far-reaching impact of McDuffie’s legacy, as thousands have gained access to homes, education, and opportunities through MDEAT’s programs. “McDuffie’s story is woven into those achievements, reminding us that progress, even born out of tragedy, is possible.”

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Byrd sees the gala evolving into a landmark event for celebrating activism and community resilience. “This is just the beginning,” she said. “I want it to remain grounded in our local history while uplifting activists and organizations that continue to push for equity and justice. This event is about remembering where we’ve been, celebrating where we are, and forging the path forward.”

A Call to Action

The Arthur Lee McDuffie Activist Awards Gala promises to be a powerful evening of history, art, and celebration. By honoring a man whose life inspired systemic change, Latoya Byrd and MDEAT are creating a gathering that not only remembers the past but also calls the community to action. As Byrd so eloquently put it, “Progress, even born out of tragedy, is possible.”