M. Athalie Range
M. Athalie Range was a trailblazing civic leader and activist whose influence extended into Miami’s arts and cultural community. As the first Black woman to serve on the Miami City Commission, she championed initiatives that uplifted historically underserved neighborhoods, advocating for cultural preservation and artistic enrichment. Range was a key advocate for the restoration of the Historic Lyric Theater, a significant cultural treasure in Overtown that became a hub for Black arts and culture. Her outstanding leadership also supported meaningful funding for cultural institutions that celebrated Miami’s diverse heritage. Beyond policy, she actively encouraged artistic expression as a means of community empowerment. Her deeply rooted legacy remains in the institutions she helped sustain and the cultural opportunities she fought to expand. Through her powerful advocacy, Range ensured that Miami’s artistic and cultural contributions from historically marginalized communities were recognized, valued, and preserved for future generations.