“Harlem has been my physical home for the past nine years. I actually attended high school in Harlem as well!

The past 2 years I’ve opened my eyes to truly see Harlem & allowed its culture, spirit & legacies to heal me. I’ve sat in Morningside Park & St. Nicholas Park for hours, frequented black owned restaurants & walked through local communities. Harlem will always be home for me. The place where I found me.”   - Alanah Wade

"I can feel the presence of greats like, Zora Neal Hurston, Adam Clayton Powell,

Marcus Garvey and Mother Hale and when traveling inside the US or globally whenever I tell someone I live in Harlem, invariably there is an instant recognition and slight head nod."

-Wiley Moore

"As I breathe in Harlem day by day I am reminded that renaissance is a daily offering. Inviting me into the baptism of Harlem's legacy of black love that transforms the way I move, breathe, create, and be.”   - Destinee Rea

"I'm excited to have my image be part of the Harlem archive reminiscent of the work of the late great James Van Der Zee. When I think of Harlem I think of the tamale lady on Broadway, family cookouts by the river, and the hills."  - Vita Kurland

“Harlem is changing but the culture remains”

- Vernel Black

“Being a Harlem resident means walking down historic streets and finding home in every new face.” - Adeyinka Adebola

"I feel such a strong sense of community in Harlem.  The richness of history and culture fills me with joy” - Imani Clenance

“Open fire hydrants 

Sitting on the stoop with friends 

The sound of bongo drums from East harlem

from our afro Latina Brothers and sisters

Hair that defies gravity 

Melanin hues

Family”

- Alice Lott 

"Lexington was born in our Harlem apartment after spending ten amazing years of marriage here.  We can't imagine raising him in any other borough.  This neighborhood is our community, our family." - Tia DeShazor

“To live in a community of such history both personally and culturally fills me with pride!

To live where I am the majority, gives me a confidence that be can’t disturb or denied!”

- Michael Jackson

“I’ve always felt like the way Harlem is alive compares to no other part of the city. There’s so much expression and creativity, specifically black expression and creativity that I’m just so thankful for. I really connect with the energy here. Something about it makes me feel supported, safe, or seen. I hope to return the good that it’s always giving to me.” - Stephanie Hughes