Dear Family,
In 1997, Lester and Lillian Seays embarked upon a journey that changed Black Florida one city at a time. First Jacksonville then Orlando—ONYX Magazine became the upscale publication African Americans and those of the African diaspora could count on to deliver trustworthy information that impacts us. Fast forward 25 years later and ONYX Magazine is known across the state—and the nation. As the publisher since 2012, it has been my complete honor to carry this mantle to entertain, inspire and inform.
In our Black History issue, we have kept our commitment to inform as we present a developing program in our cover story. The Travel + Leisure Charitable Foundation now gives scholarship access to the students of Eatonville—the oldest Black-incorporated municipality in the U.S.—to help them realize their potential. Inspired by ONYX Magazine friend, philanthropist and businessman Harris Rosen’s impact in Orlando’s Tangelo Park (another Black community), the Foundation aims to guide students through their educational goals and professional aspirations. ONYX Magazine is among the first to tell that story.
Also, one inspirational effort is ONYX Magazine’s Women on the Move (WOTM). Since its inception in 2016, we have recognized more than 100 of the Sunshine State’s most impactful and influential Black women. On Friday, March 18, 2022, we will host the seventh installation of this highly anticipated event. It is a community event you don’t want to miss. Visit www.onyxwotm.com to learn more.
Finally, as ONYX Magazine continues to entertain, we bring you young rapper Razzie in these pages. A South Florida rapper, Razzie removed his entire catalog of popular rap to return to his Christian roots and produce music that uplifts the Kingdom. and see which music events are upcoming.
Throughout this issue, you will find articles about Black people actively making history; Black Love Day, another way to say ‘I love you’ in February; and why mentorship is so key for Black boys. As always, ONYX Magazine is here to entertain, inspire and inform you with stories that matter. We thank you for supporting us as we celebrate 25 years of Black excellence.
Rich Black
