Okaloosa NAACP

09/01/2026

It is very important that you exercise your right to VOTE!

Come out and join us for a family friendly day of fun, fellowship, and civic engagement. Hear from great speakers, receive valuable voter information and resources, and make sure you’re prepared to get to the polls November 3, 2026!

Get informed, Get prepared, Get involved, Get out and VOTE!

Bring your family, friends, and neighbors every voice and every vote matters!

09/01/2026

Join us for an exciting family friendly community event filled with fun, fellowship, great speakers, and important voter information.

Come learn, connect, and get prepared to make your voice count at the polls November 3, 2026.

Bring the family, Bring a friend, Bring your voice!
💜💛
Be informed, Be prepared, Be ready to VOTE!

08/23/2026

Okaloosa County came together to honor the life and legacy of Augustus "Gus" Tart, a formerly enslaved man and early pioneer of what is now the Town of Shalimar.

08/23/2026

Honoring Legacy, Faith & Freedom: Celebrating Augustus “Gus” Tart
​What an incredible and moving afternoon at the Air Force Armament Museum as our community gathered to honor Augustus “Gus” Tart (1840–1915)—an extraordinary early Northwest Florida pioneer who rose from slavery to leave an enduring legacy in our region.
​The dedication ceremony brought together community members, civic leaders, historians, and families to reflect on Tart’s remarkable life, faith, and contributions to Okaloosa County and the Town of Shalimar.
​Event Highlights:
🇺🇸 Youth Leadership: Pledge of Allegiance led by inspiring members of the NAACP Youth Council
📜 History Preserved: Moving presentations on “The Story of Augustus Tart” shared by representatives of the Brooks family, the NAACP Research Committee, and Shalimar Town Library officials
🎙️ Community Voices: Inspiring remarks from Okaloosa County Commissioners, Shalimar Town officials, Carver Hill Museum representatives, and NAACP leadership
🪧 Historic Marker: Unveiling and display of the directional sign marking the Augustus Tart Gravesite
✍️ Commemorative Charter: Attendees of all generations signing the historic scroll that read "We The People " in reflection and solidarity
​A heartfelt thank you to all co-hosts and partners who made this memorable day possible:

• NAACP Okaloosa County Branch • Town of Shalimar • Shalimar Library & Thrift Shop •
The D9 , America 250 Okaloosa County Commission > "Honoring the legacy of an early pioneer whose life is a testament to freedom, faith, and enduring impact in our community."
​Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate and ensure his story continues to inspire generations to come!

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08/22/2026

08/22/2026

Today was truly a beautiful, meaningful, and historic occasion as we came together to honor the life and legacy of Augustus “Gus” Tart, an early Northwest Florida pioneer.

Born into slavery in South Carolina in 1840, Mr. Tart’s journey is a powerful reminder of the strength, perseverance, faith, and determination of those who came before us. He endured the injustice of slavery, lived to experience freedom, and left a legacy that deserves to be remembered and shared for generations to come.

Today’s ceremony was about more than recognizing history it was about preserving history. When we honor individuals like Augustus “Gus” Tart, we ensure that their stories are not forgotten and that future generations understand the sacrifices that helped shape our communities.

I am grateful to everyone who worked diligently to make this recognition possible and to everyone who attended and helped make today’s ceremony so special.

From slavery to freedom. From history to legacy.

May the story of Augustus “Gus” Tart continue to remind us of the power of Faith, Freedom, perseverance, and remembrance. 🙏🏾❤️🥰. Gravesite Location: Behind Shalimar Library “Okaloosa NAACP Secretary”

08/22/2026

History that has been hidden for so long is now being revealed."
​During our recent event, Dedication ceremony for Gus Tart a former slave now known as one of the founding fathers of Shalimar FL. Youth Debutante Tatiana caught up with attendee Sandra Coleman to talk about the power of preserving and uncovering our local roots. From discovering family ties to learning about historic land in Shalimar, FL that was owned by Mr. Augustus "Gus" Tart moments like these remind us why community history matters.
​Thank you to everyone who joined us to learn, celebrate, and keep our history alive! 💙
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08/13/2026

Community Mixer with Mrs. Ruby Dunson, Political Action / Civic Engagement Chair.

08/13/2026

Community Mixer
Speaking with President Sabu Williams