WATCH: Vanessa Echols hosts ‘Getting Real about Central Florida’s Black history’

ORLANDO, Fla. — Channel 9 Eyewitness News is highlighting the trailblazers and pioneers of Central Florida’s black history.

>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<

They’re people who stood up to be leaders, taking a stand in communities across the country and here at home.

READ: Building dedicated in honor of first Black student to integrate Seminole County schools

We’re digging into the stories of how the past has paved the way for today as well as the future.

Our special, “Getting Real about Central Florida’s Black history” aired at 7:30 p.m. Friday on Channel 9.

READ: Lockheed Martin executive seeks to introduce more Black women to her field

This browser does not support the video element.

Television streaming apps:

Mobile apps:

Get more Black History Month content here.

For more from our “Central Florida Gets Real” series, addressing other important issues in our communities, click here.

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.