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Florida Reflections: Music, Memory, and Seminole Life in Florida

with Rita Youngman

Florida Reflections: Conversations on Florida's Contributions to the American Tale

Florida Reflections: Conversations on Florida's Contributions to the American Tale- As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of independence, this statewide series invites audiences to look beyond familiar narratives and reconsider Florida’s place in the American story. Led by historians, scholars, artists, and cultural practitioners, the programs explore overlooked Revolutionary histories, the development of democracy in Florida, Indigenous knowledge, and the cultural traditions that carry memory across generations. From Florida’s surprising role in the American Revolution to reflections on civic responsibility and cultural expression today, the series connects past and present in thoughtful and compelling ways. Together, these programs encourage reflection on democracy, identity, and participation at a pivotal moment in the nation’s history.

Music, Memory, and Seminole Life in Florida Through song and storytelling, Seminole singer-songwriter Rita Youngman shares music rooted in Seminole history, place, and lived experience. Her work draws on stories passed down through generations while also engaging with contemporary Native American life in Florida. Performed in community and cultural settings, Youngman’s songwriting reflects deep connections to Florida’s landscapes and the enduring presence of Seminole voices within them.

Bio: Rita Youngman is a Seminole Tribe of Florida singer-songwriter and cultural storyteller from Lake Placid, Florida. She is the granddaughter of Toby and Rosa Johns from the Brighton Reservation and a member of the Bird Clan. Her original music draws on Seminole history, culture, and lived experience, with songs such as “Egmont Key” and “Hush” reflecting tribal history and stories passed down through elders. She has been performing and recording original music for over a decade, sharing her work at festivals, community events, and cultural programs across Florida.

Acknowledgement: Florida Reflections was developed by Florida Humanities and is part of By the People: Conversations Beyond 250–a series of community-driven programs created by humanities councils in collaboration with local partners. The initiative was developed by the Federation of State Humanities Councils and the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage. Funding is provided in part through the Thomas M. & Irene B. Kirbo Charitable Foundation, the Gulf Coast Community Foundation and the Community Foundation for Brevard. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of Florida Humanities or its partners.

Registration is required for this event, and must be completed two hours prior to the start time. A library card and PIN are required for registration. If you do not have a card, click HERE to obtain one.

Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, accommodations for persons with disabilities are available upon request. Please allow 1–2 business days to process. Last-minute requests will be accepted, but may not be possible to fulfill. Please ask for Learning Services at 255-2665 or email JPLPrograms@coj.net.

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