Beatrice Gilbert - Overtown

Partial Transcript: My name is Beatrice Gilbert. I’m twenty-three. I have a two-year-old and a child on the way.

Partial Transcript: Beatrice reflects on her childhood in Overtown, recalling a sense of community with accessible amenities like parks and schools. She also shares memories of family activities, such as fishing trips and communal support—which characterized her early years.

Partial Transcript: Beatrice raises concerns about pollution in her neighborhood, mentioning specific incidents such as gas releases and their health impacts. She connects these environmental issues to her personal health problems and the awareness she gained through community meetings.

Partial Transcript: Beatrice discusses the redevelopment and changes in Overtown, noting how these changes affected her family’s living situation. She explains how her family had to move frequently after the redevelopment started and describes the sense of loss as familiar buildings were torn down.

Partial Transcript: Beatrice reflects on her current life challenges and hopes for a better future for her daughter. She expresses determination to fight for her community despite the hardships and envisions a positive future for Overtown—emphasizing community pride and the importance of collective effort.

Partial Transcript: Discusses how her participation with Power U heightened her awareness of environmental hazards and motivated her to improve the community’s well-being, driven by her daughter’s future.

Partial Transcript: Beatrice feels a strong sense of ownership over her community and recognizes the importance of fighting for its betterment. Despite hardships, she sees potential in Overtown and is committed to making it a place where her daughter can thrive.