The Black Experience in NYC
Black culture is integral to the identity of NYC, the city with the largest Black population in the US. Its influence can be felt across the five boroughs in world-renowned music and style, a celebrated food scene, the visual and performing arts and all those who lead the charge to keep the City progressive, resilient and safe. With this content series, we spotlight, celebrate and amplify New York City’s Black experience and the community whose cultural contributions reverberate around the globe.
WATCH: A Glimpse into Black Culture in NYC
With a global footprint encompassing the entire Black diaspora—including people from the Caribbean, Latin America, Africa, South America and the US— and countless affinity groups and experiences, the Black community in NYC boasts its own cultural nuances that enrich the City’s diversity and provide an experience like none other.
NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDES
Explore these NYC neighborhoods that are brimming with Black culture and Black-owned businesses.
A Weekend Exploring Black-Owned Crown Heights
Explore Black-owned restaurants, shops and cultural spots in this lively neighborhood.
A Weekend Exploring Black-Owned Harlem
Make an itinerary out of visiting Black-owned restaurants, shops and cultural spots in this vibrant and historic Manhattan neighborhood.
A Weekend Exploring Black-Owned Flatbush
Make an itinerary out of visiting Black-owned venues and attractions in this culturally rich Brooklyn neighborhood.
LOVE LETTERS
Read these heartfelt dedications to the city from New Yorkers across the five boroughs.
Love Letter to NYC: Nigeria Ealey
The creator of NYC clothing brand TIER remembers his time growing up in Downtown Brooklyn.
Love Letter to NYC: Rondel Holder
Brooklynite and world traveler Rondel Holder takes to heart the job of celebrating the Black experience in NYC.
Love Letter to NYC: Sade Lythcott
Harlem is poetic inspiration for theater luminary Sade Lythcott and her love of NYC.
RISING STARS OF THE BLACK COMMUNITY
These creatives and entrepreneurs represent NYC and shape Black culture in the city. Learn more about their stories.
Rising Stars: Cynthia Gordy Giwa and Tayo Giwa
The couple behind Black-Owned Brooklyn find inspiration in their Bed-Stuy community—and each other.
Rising Star: Imani Ellis
Ellis grew a potluck dinner into a thriving community of Black professionals.
Rising Star: Brandi Cheyenne Harper
What’s next for this artist and teacher? Making knitting more accessible and creating more regenerative spaces.
MORE TO EXPLORE
Find additional inspiration and ways to explore Black culture in New York City.
Kwame Onwuachi Is Building a Culinary Empire Steeped in His Cultural Roots
The award-winning chef talks Tatiana, The Family Reunion and how NYC keeps inspiring him.
The Wine and Hip-Hop Festival Merges Fans of Two Worlds
We talk to entrepreneur Jermaine Stone, the festival’s founder, about the unlikely pairing of his twin passions.
NYC’s Pre–Civil War Free Black Communities
Across the five boroughs, a handful of Black communities thrived before the Civil War.
