Annual Celebration – City of Tampa Black History Committee, Inc.

Chief Barbara Tripp’s Speech from the 2026 City of Tampa Black History Celebration

VIEW CHIEF TRIPP’S BIO Thank you for the introduction. First giving honor to GOD. To the City of Tampa Black History committee, Mayor Castor, City Council Members, dignitaries and my community. Good morning and welcome to the 38th Annual Black History Celebration. I am deeply honored to be here today and to have been chosen […]

Eunice Butts

Eunice Butts – United States Air Force | National Guard Vietnam War Veteran | First African American female to serve as the Department Commander of the American Legion, Department of Florida

Arian Cora

Arian Cora – United States Army US Army (Retired) | Procurement Analyst – City of Tampa Purchasing Department

John Gray

John Gray – United States Army U.S. Army (Retired)

Carter Hamilton

Carter Hamilton is a member of the Mayor’s Youth Corps and a 10th-grade sophomore at H.B. Plant High School. Carter enjoys spending time writing and practicing jiu-jitsu, interests that reflect both creativity and discipline. Looking ahead, Carter is focused on continuing his education and expanding future opportunities, with a clear commitment to personal growth and […]

Jaron Howell

Jaron Howell – Air National Guard Master Sergeant Air National Guard (Retired) | Sergeant – Tampa Police Department

Edward Jones

Edward Jones – United States Coast Guard Maintenance Repairer III – Tampa Convention Center

Marvin Martin

Marvin Martin – United States Marine CorpsB48 Vietnam War Veteran | Retired Educator

Timothy McKeithen

Timothy McKeithen – United States Army Major General U.S. Army (Retired) | Former Deputy Commanding General-National Guard for U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC)

Francisco Milian

Francisco Milian – United States ArmyB56 Sergeant

Our Mission

The City of Tampa Black History Committee is committed to preserving, honoring, and celebrating the rich history, cultural heritage, and enduring contributions of African Americans to the growth and development of the City of Tampa. Through educational programming, community recognition, and the annual Black History Celebration, the we highlight leaders, pioneers, and organizations whose service, innovation, and dedication have strengthened our community and inspired future generations. Our mission is to promote historical awareness, foster unity, and ensure that the legacy and achievements of African Americans remain an integral part of Tampa’s shared history. WE are a 501(c)3 Non-Profit organization.

Contact Us

E: cotbhc@gmail.com

Contribute

CashApp: $COTBHC

PayPal: @COTBHC

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Eunice Butts 0

Arian Cora 0

John Gray 0

Carter Hamilton 0

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Edward Jones 0

Marvin Martin 0

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2023 Honorees