Welcome to SHIFTER magazine’s New York City Spotlight! Founded in August 2013, SHIFTER magazine is a Canadian hub for Black culture and community, dedicated to celebrating and empowering Black talent across music, film, television, fashion, and sports.
Our Story: New York’s Black American Legacy
The history of Black American communities in New York can be traced back to pre-Civil War times. When the state abolished slavery in 1827, Black communities began to emerge, transforming the metropolis into a haven for emancipated Black Americans.
The post-Jim Crow era also witnessed a notable surge in New York’s Black population, with many migrating from the South to the North. In the early 1900s, Harlem became a focal point, drawing in a large number of Black Americans during the Great Migration.
Since then, New York has been the center of many civil rights movements, with pivotal events like the 1964 Harlem Riot and the 1969 Stonewall Uprising. Influential figures like Malcolm X and Shirley Chisholm further cemented New York’s role as a battleground for equality.
Today, New York City is home to the largest Black American population, with the highest concentration in Brooklyn, Harlem, Queens, and The Bronx.
The Beat of New York: Black American Arts and Entertainment
Spotlight on Black Talent: Musicians, Artists, and Performers
Black music has long been integral to New York City’s music scene. Harlem, in particular, is hallowed ground where jazz legends like Duke Ellington and Ella Fitzgerald graced iconic venues like the Apollo Theater and Cotton Club.
Meanwhile, the legendary 1520 Sedgwick Avenue in the Bronx is known as the birthplace of hip-hop. Here, DJ Kool Herc’s innovative turntable techniques and emceeing laid the foundation for a cultural revolution. The streets of Brooklyn and Queens also played pivotal roles in hip-hop’s evolution, giving rise to legends like
The Notorious B.I.G., Jay-Z, and Nas, who all carved out their places in the genre’s hall of fame. Today, iconic venues such as The Tunnel in Manhattan and Brooklyn’s Barclays Center continue to host performances that pay homage to the city’s hip-hop legacy.
Film & Television
There’s no denying that Black American talent is a remarkable driving force behind New York’s film and television industry. From influential directors like Spike Lee, who captured the vibrant essence of Brooklyn in classics like “Do the Right Thing,” and Ava DuVernay, who explored the Central Park Five case in “When They See Us,” to award-winning actors like Mahershala Ali in “Moonlight,” Black talent is reshaping the industry.
In every frame, Black American talent in New York is a powerful catalyst for diversity, authenticity, and innovation on- and off-screen.
Expressing Identity Through Fashion, Style, and Elegance
From Harlem’s streets to Fashion Week runways, Black culture continues to weave its influence into the fabric of New York City’s ever-evolving style. The city boasts a plethora of Black American fashion icons who have significantly influenced the industry, including:
- Dapper Dan: a Harlem-based designer renowned for his iconic streetwear styles for hip-hop artists.
- Kerby Jean-Raymond: founder of Pyer Moss, known for his avant-garde designs that often address social issues.
- Aurora James: founder of the 15 Percent Pledge and advocate for diversity and inclusion in the fashion industry.
- Bethann Hardison: a former model and founder of the Black Girls Coalition, a fierce advocate for diversity and inclusion in the fashion world.
Athletic Excellence and Cultural Impact of Black Americans
New York’s sports scene thrives on the contributions of local Black athletes, showcasing the city’s cultural diversity.
From the iconic legacy of Brooklyn-born Jackie Robinson to basketball legends like Patrick Ewing and Carmelo Anthony, Black athletes have become integral to New York’s sports heritage.
Celebrating Black American Culture in New York
Voices of Change: Advocacy and Community in New York
In New York, addressing the disproportionate impact of systemic issues on the well-being of Black Americans is a critical priority.
While the implementation of the Affordable Care Act and other policies during the COVID-19 pandemic have helped narrow some disparities in health coverage, Black Americans continue to face greater barriers to receiving health care than their White counterparts.
Through collaborative efforts from organizations like the New York Urban League and local grassroots initiatives, the city works towards dismantling barriers to bridge gaps in healthcare accessibility.
Empowering Black Business: New York’s Entrepreneurs
Whether it’s Harlem’s thriving boutiques, Brooklyn’s innovative tech startups, or Bronx-based culinary gems, New Yorkers can champion diversity in the city by celebrating and embracing the success of Black entrepreneurs. Initiatives like the Harlem Business Alliance also empower Black entrepreneurs to foster a supportive ecosystem.
Soulful Feasts: Black American Food
Black American food in New York carries the historical and cultural significance of generations. Dishes like smothered chicken, collard greens, and Harlem’s iconic chicken and waffles will not only tantalize your taste buds but also serve as symbols of resilience and community.
From the soulful flavors of Harlem’s Sylvia’s Restaurant to the Afro-Caribbean delights found in Brooklyn’s Peaches Hothouse, you can find diverse and delicious offerings in every corner of New York City.
Black Community Events Calendar in New York
Get ready to immerse yourself in New York’s Black community through these upcoming events. From soulful music festivals and art exhibitions to community forums, stay tuned for opportunities to connect, celebrate, and amplify the diverse voices shaping New York’s Black community.
Coming Up This Month
Queens Underground International Black History Month Film Festival
A celebration of Black American culture through film.
February 17, 2024; 6 p.m.- 10 p.m.
King Manor MuseumApollo Theater’s Amateur Night – Season Opener
A historic event that has launched the careers of countless legendary artists.
February 21, 2024
Apollo’s Historic TheaterHarlem Fine Arts Show
A showcase of contemporary African diasporic art that gathers artists, collectors, and enthusiasts alike.
February 23-25, 2024
The Glasshouse
