Von Delany Mizell facts for kids
Von Delany Mizell (1910–1973) was a very important doctor in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He was the second Black doctor in the city. At that time, hospitals in Fort Lauderdale did not allow Black patients. So, Dr. Mizell helped create Provident Hospital especially for Black residents.
He was a brave leader in the fight for equal rights. He organized peaceful protests and even boycotted the "Colored School" in Fort Lauderdale. He also successfully sued the Broward County Medical Association to be allowed to join. Dr. Mizell started the first local chapter of the NAACP in South Florida. This group works to make sure everyone has equal rights. He also worked hard to make sure Black residents had a beach to use and to end segregation on all Broward County beaches.
Who Was Dr. Von D. Mizell?
Dr. Von D. Mizell was born in 1910 and lived until 1973. He became a doctor at a time when Black people faced many unfair rules. These rules, called segregation, kept Black and white people separate. Dr. Mizell believed everyone should be treated fairly. He used his skills as a doctor and a leader to fight for change.
Fighting for Equal Rights
Dr. Mizell saw that Black people in Fort Lauderdale did not have good healthcare. He knew this was wrong. That's why he helped build Provident Hospital. This hospital gave Black people a safe place to get medical care.
He also fought against unfair rules in other ways:
- He led "sit-ins" and protests. These were peaceful ways to show that segregation was wrong.
- He encouraged people to boycott the "Colored School." A boycott means refusing to use something to show you are unhappy with it. This helped push for better schools for Black children.
- He took legal action to join the Broward County Medical Association. This was a big step in making sure Black doctors were respected.
- He started the first local NAACP group. The NAACP works to end unfair treatment and make sure all people have equal rights.
- He worked to open beaches for Black residents. He also helped to end segregation on all beaches in Broward County.
His Lasting Legacy
Dr. Von D. Mizell's work changed Fort Lauderdale forever. His efforts helped make the city a fairer place for everyone. His legacy is still remembered today.
- The land where Provident Hospital once stood is now home to the Von D. Mizell Community Center. This center is owned by the city of Fort Lauderdale. It serves the community, just as Dr. Mizell served the people.
- On July 1, 2016, a state park was renamed in his honor. John U. Lloyd Beach State Park became the Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park. This name honors Dr. Mizell and Eula Johnson for their important work in civil rights. They both fought to end segregation on beaches.
