Welcome back to the Austin ParksCast! Our guest for today’s episode is Javier Wallace. Javier is a native Austinite with deep roots in Central Texas. His family has been here since the early 1830s - that’s almost 200 years of stories and lived experiences!

He completed his Doctorate in Philosophy at the University of Texas at Austin in 2019 and is the founder of Black Austin Tours. He is also the co-founder of AfroLatinx Travel and Black Packas. He’s been featured on ESPN’s Longhorn Network, Travel + Leisure magazine, the Travel Channel, received the highest reviews for “best storytelling” in Austin through Air BnB experiences, and more.

Javier founded Black Austin Tours in 2019 out of his love for history and storytelling. He offers folks the opportunity to learn about the vibrant history of Austin’s Black community through seasonal and virtual tours.

His tours highlight historical landmarks, Black-owned businesses, and the People of African descent who played an integral part in Austin’s development since the establishment of the city in 1839 and before. Our conversation is centered on how parks and public spaces have played an important role in the history of Austin’s Black community. It was a pleasure to have the opportunity to listen and learn from Javier, and I’m excited for y’all to be able to do the same.