Important Figures

“No one has a story like Dapper Dan.  His evolution from hustler to fashion icon is the stuff of legend.” ~ Janelle Okwodu, journalist, Vogue On August 8, 1944 a baby boy was born in the Harlem community of the Manhattan borough to R... Continue Reading

“Mrs. Johnson [was] smart enough as a businesswoman, as a visionary, to take color and translate it to the needs of women of many hues … Everything with Mrs. Johnson became a celebration of who we are, of who Black women were.” ~ Andre Leo... Continue Reading

Born and reared in the Brooklyn borough of New York City, Eric Edwards has spent more than five decades curating one of the greatest private collections of African art in the world.  Critical in his mission to educate others about the richness... Continue Reading

“For Dr. Marta Moreno Vega, a Black woman of Puerto Rican descent, born and reared in El Barrio, the current rise of a global movement for Black lives and collective liberation aligns with her unwavering vision for a better world.  Her stead... Continue Reading

“The narrative of her photographs extends beyond a picture or a series of pictures to create a greater context for the artist herself within photography, womanhood and the African American experience.” ~ The Historymakers On July 9, 1951,... Continue Reading

“Roy DeCarava is a giant of American art photography.  His practice, spanning six decades of American history, recorded aspects of African American life and culture over decades of drastic change … His photographs are less a record and mor... Continue Reading

“You have proved to be one of the great leaders of our time.  Through your efficiency as an administrator, your genuine humanitarian concern, and your unswerving devotion to the principles of freedom and human dignity, you have carved for yourse... Continue Reading

“Dr. Canady is a true pioneer who has devoted her distinguished career to caring for underprivileged children and breaking barriers that stymie access to healthcare.  Her commitment, perseverance and exemplary service to her community are a ... Continue Reading

“He was just an indomitable advocate for Black people, whether it was getting them to vote, getting them on juries, desegregating the schools, having a Black Santa in the mall, getting Black people to run for office.  So over the course of his l... Continue Reading