Jimmy Smith’s journey has been one of resilience, courage, and leadership. As the first Black park ranger hired at Jonathan Dickinson State Park in 1981, Smith faced racial hostility head-on, paving the way for greater inclusion. Today, as the president of the Martin County NAACP, his work continues to fight for justice, equality, and a better future for all.
Breaking Barriers as the First Black Park Ranger
In 1981, Smith’s life took an unexpected turn when he became the first Black employee at Jonathan Dickinson State Park. The U.S. Supreme Court had mandated public lands receiving federal funds to integrate, pushing the park to diversify its staff. This opened the door for Smith, who had recently returned from military service and was looking for stable employment.
Despite the groundbreaking nature of his hire, Smith’s experience was far from easy. He encountered constant ridicule and exclusion from some of his colleagues. One such instance involved a cruel prank where a snake was deliberately placed in his truck, exploiting his fear of the creatures. “They thought it would be funny,” Smith recalled. “But I didn’t find it amusing at all.”
Facing Racism and Exclusion
Smith’s challenges didn’t end with pranks. He often found himself the target of subtle and overt racism. On one occasion, a white camper complained to Smith’s supervisor about him “lurking” around her campsite. His only offense was doing his job: patrolling the park regularly.
The constant tension wore on Smith, and after seven months, he decided to leave the job that had been full of both professional challenges and personal discrimination. “It was clear they were trying to push me out,” Smith explained. His experience as the first Black ranger highlighted the deep-rooted racial tensions that still lingered, even in the 1980s.
A New Chapter: Leading the Martin County NAACP
Though his time as a park ranger ended, Smith’s commitment to social change only grew stronger. By 2006, he joined the Martin County NAACP, eventually becoming president in 2015. Under his leadership, the organization has seen significant growth and increased participation. Today, the membership is nearly split evenly between Black and white members.
Smith’s presidency has been marked by efforts to build trust between communities that have historically been divided. He’s worked to bridge gaps with local law enforcement agencies, helping to rebuild relationships that had been strained by past injustices.
“We have to understand there is no one-size-fits-all Black community,” Smith said. This perspective has been crucial in ensuring that the NAACP remains inclusive and responsive to the diverse needs of the county’s residents.
Preserving and Sharing Martin County’s Black History
Smith is also dedicated to preserving the history of Black communities in Martin County. He advocates for educating younger generations about the area’s Black heritage, pointing to historic neighborhoods such as New Monrovia and Pettway Park. These communities were once racially segregated due to discriminatory real estate practices, a painful part of the county’s history that Smith works to keep alive.
“Without knowing our history, we are blind,” Smith said. By promoting the restoration and recognition of places like the New Monrovia One-Room Schoolhouse, he aims to ensure that future generations understand the significance of these historical sites.
Jimmy Smith’s Legacy of Change and Inclusion
Today, Smith’s work continues to shape the future of Martin County, both through his role in the NAACP and his ongoing fight for racial equity. His story is one of perseverance, from enduring racism as a park ranger to becoming a respected leader in the community. As he continues to inspire those around him, his legacy as a trailblazer for inclusion remains powerful.
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