Testimonial: Darden Rice

Darden Rice

Former St. Petersburg City Council Member (2014-2022)

Past Chair, St. Petersburg City Council

Past Chair, Forward Pinellas

Past Chair, Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority

Past President, League of Women Voters, St. Petersburg Area

Full Statement:

 “ My relationship with Antonio spans over a decade, during which I have had the privilege of witnessing his growth, resilience, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact, whether working on a local city council campaign, forging a path in student government, or bringing original community art projects forward to build connections of meaning in the world around us. 

Along the way, Antonio felt and experienced firsthand the restorative power of building community by reminding us of the compelling stories and personal histories of the people who walked before us. A true original himself, Antonio has the gift of seeing the original power in others and to look for the missing pages of our history books to complete the real stories of our own lives. 

Antonio's roots in the Tampa Bay community run deep, and my connection with his family only serves to underscore the values of integrity, compassion, and dedication that have been instilled in him from a young age. Antonio’s energy to take on meaningful projects reflects his “old soul” sensibility of wisdom, empathy, and passion for humanity. 

Antonio's endeavors are also driven by a profound sense of purpose—to create a world where innovation thrives without sacrificing the rich tapestry of our collective history. He is motivated by a genuine desire to elevate the voices of those often unheard, to honor the contributions of all, and to ensure that the dignity and legacy of every individual are preserved for generations to come.

At the core of Antonio's mission lies a heart-centered commitment to leaving a lasting legacy of compassion, understanding, and profound impact. His dedication to empowering communities, preserving heritage, and championing social justice embodies a rare blend of passion and purpose that is truly inspiring.

Antonio's vision for a future where every individual is seen, heard, and valued is a guiding light that illuminates the path toward a more equitable and inclusive world that reflects the shimmering stories of the many ordinary and remarkable lives of those among us. ”

— Darden Rice

(April 8, 2024)