The McDuffie Riots, among Overtown’s darkest days, return on screen (includes video story)

This past weekend, the Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater held a community conversation following a screening of the documentary “When Liberty Burns,” a film highlighting the life and death of Arthur L. McDuffie.

Shown one year after George Floyd’s killing in police custody on May 25, 2020, the documentary “When Liberty Burns” highlights the 40th anniversary of the tragic passing of Arthur Lee McDuffie — a long-ago death at the hands of police.

After McDuffie failed to stop for a traffic light, police officers followed him and beat him until he lost consciousness. When the cops were not convicted, riots took place that still resound today.

The anniversary inspired director Dudley Alexis to recount the story. The event was sponsored by the FIU Foundation Office of Inclusive Philanthropy.

Alejandra Garcia Elcoro is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Media and Journalism at Florida International University. With her passion and dedication, she will report vital stories that will leave an impact on her community.