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. Find the individual photos (with captions and credits) shown in this video here.
CURRENT HIGHLIGHTS
Read about the people, restaurants, festivals and cultural institutions making news today.
Black Chefs Shaking Up the NYC Food Scene
Meet the culinary geniuses revolutionizing the City’s dining experience.
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.
BLACK ART EXHIBITIONS IN NYC
See historic murals, underappreciated works and private collections of famous Black artists on display across the City.
Byenveni
Haitian artists focus on the concept of home for this multimedia show in Harlem.
Harlem Hospital Murals
The restored WPA murals are on view at Harlem Hospital Center.
Sonya Clark: We Are Each Other
Sonya Clark, part of the Museum of Arts and Design's inaugural show in its Columbus Circle location, returns for her first NYC solo show.
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.
Black History and Culture Sites in NYC
Check out landmarks and venues across the five boroughs that help tell the story of Black history.
Black-Owned Bookstores in NYC
Explore these four Black-owned bookstores with selections that showcase the cultural diversity of New York City.
NYC’s Pre–Civil War Free Black Communities
Across the five boroughs, a handful of Black communities thrived before the Civil War.
