Florida's Dark Past: Justice and Restitution for Dozier School Survivors

Survivors of Florida's Dozier School are set to receive restitution for enduring physical and sexual abuse decades ago. The notorious school housed hundreds of boys, many of whom suffered or disappeared. Florida allocated USD 20 million for survivors as a film captures their harrowing experiences to ensure stories aren't forgotten.

Hundreds claiming abuse at Florida's Dozier School to receive restitution, following a state apology acknowledging decades-old horrors. Originally operational during the Jim Crow era, the school housed boys for minor offences, now being compensated for abuses suffered.

The infamous facility, now shuttered, has witnessed accounts of beatings, sexual abuse, and deaths, with almost 100 boys reportedly perishing between 1900 and 1973. Some of the deceased were buried unidentifiably, prompting recent investigative efforts.

Prior to a December deadline, over 800 claims for restitution were filed, with USD 20 million budgeted for survivors. The trauma and resilience of the victims are portrayed in the film "Nickel Boys", adapted from Colson Whitehead's novel inspired by Dozier's grim history.

(With inputs from agencies.)