You’ve probably driven past James B. Sanderlin School in St. Pete, but who is this revered school named after? Sanderlin was a true trailblazer in St. Petersburg, Florida. As the first Black judge in Pinellas County, Sanderlin’s legacy goes far beyond the courtroom. He was the legal powerhouse behind the Courageous 12, a group of Black police officers who boldly stood up for their right to equal treatment within the force.

His work didn’t stop there; he also fought alongside sanitation workers, like Joe Savage, during their historic strike for better wages and working conditions.

Sanderlin becomes Pinellas County’s first Black judge

In 1972, Sanderlin became the first African-American to be appointed a judge in Pinellas County, where he served with distinction. He later became the first African-American to serve on the Florida Second District Court of Appeal.

James B. Sanderlin made his mark as a formidable civil rights attorney, taking on several landmark cases that challenged racial discrimination in schools, housing, and beyond. One of his most impactful contributions, aside from the Courageous 12, was representing the plaintiffs in the lawsuit that led to the desegregation of Pinellas County schools, specifically at Dixie Hollins High School, in the 1960s. This case was another turning point in ensuring that African-American students received equal educational opportunities.

Sanderlin’s influence today

Sanderlin’s influence is woven into the fabric of St. Pete, where his name graces Sanderlin Elementary School 2350 22nd Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL 33712. As an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, Sanderlin Elementary offers a rigorous curriculum that encourages students to be inquirers, knowledgeable thinkers, and compassionate individuals—qualities that align closely with the principles that guided Judge Sanderlin’s work in civil rights. The presence of James B. Sanderlin Elementary in the community is a reminder of the lasting impact.

In addition, the James B. Sanderlin Family Service Center was established in his honor. It began as an initiative by the Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg and local community members to create a space for addressing the needs of the Black community.

The center was built through grassroots efforts, with volunteers renovating an abandoned building provided by the Diocese. Over time, it grew into a vibrant community hub offering services in education, health, family life, and employment, thanks to the dedication of volunteers, financial contributions, and partnerships with various organizations.