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In the heart of
Miami, where history whispers from the walls and streets, we sat down with
Jay Whipple, the visionary behind the groundbreaking
QCT Miami Black Heritage Toursm. As a
Miami native and a seasoned tour developer,
Whipple has dedicated over a quarter-century to unearthing and sharing the rich, often overlooked narratives of
Black history. His latest endeavor, the
QCT FLALGANC Experiencesm, is set to weave the vibrant threads of the
QCT Miami Black Heritage Toursm with the profound stories from the
QCT Charlotte Pilgrimage Toursm intertwined with stops in
Central and the
Florida Panhandle,
Alabama, and
Georgia. This exclusive interview offers a glimpse into
Whipple's journey, his passion for storytelling, and how his work serves as a beacon during
Black History Month and beyond, guiding us through the corridors of the past into the heart of
America's southern roots.
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♦Trend Magazine Online™ -- Jay Whipple, it's a pleasure to have you with us. Can you tell us about the inception of the
QCT Miami Black Heritage Toursm?
Jay Whipple -- Absolutely. After returning to Miami in 2014, I was struck by the profound changes in the city. It inspired me to create the
QCT Miami Black Heritage Toursm, a first-of-its-kind experience showcasing individuals like
Pastor Meddie P. Bannister and
Dr. Enid C. Pinkney, who've significantly shaped Miami's Black community.
♦Trend Magazine Online™ -- What was the driving force behind this initiative?
Jay Whipple -- My time in Miami, working various jobs, reacquainting myself with the city, and my background in tour development in Charlotte, NC, fueled this project. I realized there was a rich, untold story of Black Miami that needed a platform.
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♦Trend Magazine Online™ -- How has your experience been, rediscovering Miami and developing this tour?
Jay Whipple -- It's been a journey of rediscovery and connection. From my time at the Sun Life (Now Hard Rock) Stadium to driving for ride-share companies, every mile traveled, and story heard added depth to the tour's creation.
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♦Trend Magazine Online™ -- Can you share how your educational pursuits have influenced the tour?
Jay Whipple -- Certainly. My studies in Miami history at Miami Dade Community College and participation in various local tours have been instrumental. They've enriched my understanding and interpretation of Miami's diverse history.
♦Trend Magazine Online™ -- How have you ensured the tour's relevance and engagement for locals and visitors alike?
Jay Whipple -- I've focused on creating a balance between education and entertainment, what I like to call 'edutainment.' My initial tours, including one at
Bayside in
Downtown, were key in fine-tuning this approach.