Ali Cultural Center Courtyard to be renamed to honor Hazel Armbrister
From David Volz
Pompano Beach Arts has announced the renaming of The Historic Ali Cultural Center Courtyard in tribute to Hazel K. Armbrister. A portrait bust of the esteemed teacher, activist, and historian will be unveiled during a special event organized by Reverend Marguerite Kelley Luster, Armbrister’s sister, and the team at Rock Road Restoration Historical Group. Featuring music, dance, and remarks by Mayor Rex Hardin, the courtyard dedication and bust presentation will take place on July 10, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Ali Cultural Arts Center at 353 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard. The event is free and open to the public. Learn more at www.pompanobeacharts.org.
A native of Perry, Florida, Armbrister lived in Pompano Beach’s Liberty Park neighborhood for over 60 years. Encouraged by her late husband, David C. Armbrister, she pursued education and obtained degrees from Miami Dade Community College, USF, and Miami-Dade College.
Armbrister dedicated 31 years to teaching in Dade and Broward counties, positively influencing numerous generations. Her extensive community involvement led to numerous awards, including induction into Broward County’s Women’s Hall of Fame and the Senior Hall of Fame. She co-founded the Florida Black Democratic Caucus and the Gwen Cherry Women’s Political Caucus and was an active member of various local organizations.
Throughout her life, Armbrister tirelessly advocated for women’s and black rights, notably participating in the “Wade-In” protests against segregated beaches in Fort Lauderdale during the 1960s. In 2017, she was appointed as the “Pompano Beach City Historian” and played key roles in preservation efforts and on cultural committees. She founded the Rock Road Restoration Historical Group, housed in the Ali Cultural Center, a landmark she passionately fought to preserve.
Her legacy endures through her unwavering commitment to community service, education, and advocacy. While her absence leaves a void, her impact remains deeply woven into the fabric of her community.
The Rock Road Restoration Historical Group, Inc. 501(c)(3) was created to collect meaningful artifacts, preserve history, and educate others about the past, present, and future contributions of Black residents west of Dixie Highway in Pompano Beach, Florida.
