Commissioner Bastien to honor Miami trailblazer H.T. Smith with street naming ceremony

MIAMI-DADE – Commissioner Marleine Bastien will host a street naming ceremony in honor of H.T. Smith to celebrate Smith’s lifelong commitment to justice, equality, and advocacy for Miami’s African American community. The event will take place on Friday, Feb. 28, at 11 a.m. at Gwen Cherry Park, 7090 NW 22nd Ave., Miami, FL, 33147.

A portion of NW 69th Street between NW 22nd and NW 27th Avenue will be renamed “H.T. Smith Street” to honor Smith’s pioneering work as one of the most decorated and top attorneys in Miami-Dade County. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Smith served our nation in the Vietnam War. Upon his safe return, he received his Juris Doctorate from the University of Miami School of Law. After becoming Miami-Dade County’s first African American assistant public defender and assistant County attorney, Smith entered private practice as Miami’s first Black-owned law firm practicing in downtown Miami.

Smith’s leadership in law, activism, and education has impacted South Florida, earning him several accolades and solidifying him as a top trial lawyer. He has served as president of various national and prestigious organizations, including the National Bar Association. He has received the highest honors from academia, organizations, and publications nationwide.

Learn more about the legislation for the H.T. Smith Street naming ceremony here.