The documentary RAZED explores the rich history and cultural impact of the Gas Plant neighborhood in St. Petersburg.
On February 22, 2025, the documentary ‘RAZED: Lies, Baseball, and the Price of Progress’ will premiere in St. Petersburg, shedding light on the historical Gas Plant neighborhood. Directed by Andrew Lee and Tara Segall, this impactful film captures the stories of a vibrant Black community displaced by urban development, engaging the audience in important discussions about cultural preservation and reparative justice.
St. Petersburg is about to witness a unique premiere that aims to honor the rich history of the Gas Plant neighborhood. On Saturday, February 22, 2025, the documentary titled “RAZED: Lies, Baseball, and the Price of Progress” will make its debut at the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg’s Center for Health Equity, located at 2333 34th Street South. This groundbreaking film delves deeply into the heart and soul of a vibrant Black community that was displaced to make way for what we now know as Tropicana Field.
Directed and produced by the dynamic duo of Andrew Lee and Tara Segall from Roundhouse Creative, this documentary promises to captivate audiences with its heartfelt storytelling. The film encapsulates the experiences of former residents, capturing their tales of friendship, family, and community spirit. It features first-hand accounts from a diverse group of individuals, including families, business owners, and long-time community members.
The project has garnered support from the African American Heritage Association of St. Petersburg as well as the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg, showcasing a collaborative effort to shed light on a piece of history that has been too often overlooked.
This isn’t just a historical account—it’s an emotional journey that targets the heart of the matter: the displacement caused by city redevelopment efforts. The film serves as a wake-up call amid ongoing development plans for the Gas Plant District. Using a combination of archival footage and poignant personal stories, “RAZED” emphasizes the urgent need for communities to preserve their cultural and historical integrity.
Attendance at the premiere event is free and open to the public, but space is limited, so registration is required. Guests will have the unique opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions about issues of community displacement and equitable urban development. The film acts as both a historical record and a proactive call to action, pushing for meaningful conversations on the implications of urban decisions.
For over a decade, community advocates have worked tirelessly to bring this project to life, highlighting a history that often gets lost in the shuffle of urban development narratives. The Gas Plant neighborhood was known for its close-knit community, where residents shared life before displacement. The documentary will resonate with those who understand the value of preserving local history and culture, particularly in the face of modernization.
Those who’ve lived in the Gas Plant neighborhood and their descendants contribute personal anecdotes that enrich the film’s narrative, painting a vivid picture of the community’s loss and the vibrant culture that once thrived there.
“RAZED” doesn’t just stop at showcasing the past; it also aims to foster discussions on reparative justice for communities dealing with similar displacements across the country. This initiative highlights the importance of protecting cultural heritage, particularly as urban areas continue to develop.
In addition to the premiere, there are ongoing efforts to reconnect former residents and celebrate the history of the Gas Plant community through activities such as reunions and digital heritage trails. The film is expected to inspire change and ignite discussions about the impacts of urban development decisions, making it a thought-provoking piece.
For those curious to learn more about the documentary, previews and additional details can be found at gasplantfilm.com. Be sure to mark your calendars and get ready for an eye-opening experience that delves into the heart of St. Petersburg’s past!
Historic St. Petersburg Home Listed at $945,000
Documentary Captures the Legacy of Gas Plant Neighborhood
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