Lt. Archie McKay Pre-Celebration of 100th Birthday

City of Miami Black Police Precinct and Courthouse Museum to Honor 100-Year-Old World War II Veteran and Retired Lieutenant Archie McKay

Community Fundraiser to Celebrate “We Too Sing America” – a Reflection of Black Service, Sacrifice and Pride as the Nation Approaches its 250th Anniversary

The City of Miami Black Police Precinct and Courthouse Museum proudly announces a Centennial Celebration and Community Day in honor of Lieutenant Archie McKay, a decorated World War II veteran and one of the last living officers from the historic “Negro-Only” Precinct. The event will take place on Friday, November 14, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at 480 NW 11th Street, Miami, FL 33136, and will serve as a community-wide fundraiser under this year’s unifying theme:
“We Too Sing America.”

This annual theme—echoing the powerful words of poet Langston Hughes—centers the Museum’s 2025–2026 fundraising and programming efforts as the nation prepares to commemorate 250 years of the United States of America in 2026. The campaign seeks to uplift untold stories of patriotism, resilience, and cultural contribution that have long been omitted from America’s official narrative.

“Through the life of Lt. Archie McKay, we hear the steady drumbeat of a people who have always loved, defended, and improved this country—even when it refused to love them back,” said Terrance Cribbs-Lorrant, Museum Director. “We Too Sing America is not just our theme—it is our declaration that the African American story is central to the American story.”

Lt. McKay’s journey exemplifies that truth. Born in an era of segregation, he graduated from Booker T. Washington Senior High School in 1948, and just five days after his 18th birthday, he enlisted to serve his country in World War II. Upon returning home, he accepted a friendly dare from his peers to join the police force—an act of courage that would make history. In 1958, McKay joined the Miami Police Department at a time when Black officers were not permitted to attend the police academy, instead relying on their own intellect, discipline, and lived experience to serve with distinction.

Assigned to the Negro Precinct from until 1964, Lt. McKay served during the height of segregation until the federal government required the integration of all federal buildings. During his tenure, he became Miami’s first Black detective, revered for his ability to bridge the divide between law enforcement and the community. His service not only solved cases but restored faith within neighborhoods too often overlooked or marginalized.

Now approaching his 100th birthday on November 15, 2025, Lt. McKay stands as one of only three living officers who served at the original precinct—an enduring symbol of honor, discipline, and humanity.

The Centennial Celebration will feature reflections from civic leaders, musical tributes, and a special performance by the Booker T. Washington Senior High School Band, performing both the school’s Alma Mater and the historic “Toronado Flight” song in tribute to their esteemed alumnus.

Proceeds from this event will benefit the Museum’s “We Too Sing America” Fund, supporting historical preservation, youth engagement, and the creation of new educational exhibits leading up to the U.S. Semiquincentennial (250th Anniversary) in 2026.