50 years on, Harlem Week shows how a New York City neighborhood went from crisis to renaissance

Harlem Week, which began in 1974 as an effort to revitalize the struggling New York City neighborhood, celebrated its 50th anniversary this year. Launched by Manhattan borough president Percy Sutton, Harlem Week was initially called Harlem Day and aimed to shift the focus from the neighborhood’s decline to its rich cultural legacy. The event, featuring prominent figures like Maya Angelou, Harry Belafonte, and James Baldwin, marked the start of the “Second Harlem Renaissance.” Over the years, Harlem Day expanded into Harlem Week, and before the pandemic, it had grown to a month-long celebration. This year’s events included concerts, tributes, and empowerment initiatives, all showcasing Harlem’s history and vibrant culture. Harlem Week has become a symbol of the neighborhood’s resilience and ongoing renaissance, reflecting its transformation from a period of crisis to one of renewed vitality and cultural significance.

Source: AP News